Gospel Reflection - John 20:19-23

This Sunday marks the end of the Easter season with the feast of Pentecost. On this day, we celebrate the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and the beginning of the Church. Pentecost reminds us to be open to the presence of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives, and while we probably won’t witness a rushing wind or tongues of fire, we can still experience this gift. The Gospel this week reminds us of the link between peace, forgiveness and the action of the Holy Spirit. Our Church is called to be a reconciling presence in the world and we are called to be agents of peace and harmony in our communities. For help with this, we pray;

Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful.

And kindle in them the fire of your love.

Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.

And you will renew the face of the earth.

Lord,

by the light of the Holy Spirit

you have taught the hearts of your faithful.

In the same Spirit

help us to relish what is right

and always rejoice in your consolation.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Adapted from Loyola Press and Enduring Word

Sacramental News

This weekend’s Parish Masses mark the beginning of our First Eucharist celebrations. We continue to pray for all our candidates, and we especially pray for Ashley (3/4P) as he celebrates his First Eucharist this weekend. Our other candidates will celebrate their First Eucharist over the next six weeks at our weekend Parish masses. 

We also pray for all our candidates who will make their First Reconciliation next Wednesday after the regular morning Mass. Our CSYMA Youth Minister Elena, led SJV’s Reconciliation candidates in a short prayer session today. The students respectfully participated in the session and enjoyed the opportunity to reflect on this next step in their Sacramental journey.

Wednesday Morning Mass

Year 5/6 will be leading our Parish’s Wednesday morning Mass next week. All parents are welcome to join us at this celebration.