The Feast of Pentecost – June 12, 2011

Lord, Send Out Your Spirit, and Renew the Face of the Earth

The refrain for this feast's Psalm is a perfect reminder to the power of God, his very Spirit. This is a celebration of God's power and activity among us. It gives us a chance to reflect on how God has moved in us and through us.

PENTECOST VIGIL June 11, 2011

MP3 PODCAST In this week's podcast, we discuss the work of the Spirit in the Church and in our lives.

FIRST READING The Pentecost narrative comes from Acts. The Spirit came upon followers of Jesus and changed their lives. And in doing so, the Spirit changed ours.

PSALM Psalm 104 blessed God for his creative power. He is in control of the cosmos, from the smallest spec to the vastness of the universe.

SECOND READING In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul encouraged his readers to develop their spiritual gifts, not for their good, but for the good of the community, and, eventually, for the good of the world.

GOSPEL What makes the Christian concept of God different? The power of God, his Spirit, is a power for forgiveness. This power bridges the gap between good and evil, between artificial or real differences, and unites people. The power of God gives us a purpose and a direction back to the Father.

CHILDREN'S READINGSIn the story for the first reading, Mandy runs her first 10K. To win a 6.6 mile course, Mandy must be aware of her breath, the sign of life in her. In story for the gospel reading, Jenna stood in line for food at a movie complex. What should she buy? She felt the weight of responsibility her father gave her and the power of the money she had in her pocket. Power and responsibility.

CATECHISM LINKThe Catechism Link is an overview of the Ascension and Pentecost.

FAMILY ACTIVITYTo understand the link between breath and life, have a balloon race for your family members. Connect the power of breath and life with the Spirit.