Here we invite you to take time for yourself in personal prayer. The following spiritual reflection offers words and images which we hope will evoke for you an experience of God.

By: Sister Sheila Briody

Opening Prayer

Loving God, You have called us as followers of Joseph
to stand open, receptive and expectant before You,
to know our dependence upon You,
to wait for Your grace in the Holy Spirit.
Liberate us to a radical sense of mission
through the rhythm of
contemplation and courageous action,
to be a healing presence in any and all situations.
Amen. (SSJ Federation Research Team, adapted)

Reflection on Pentecost

As we keep in mind a world order that is desperately in need of peace, our cities filled with violence, political and economic divisions, we call upon the Spirit of Pentecost to guide our way.

We dwell on these phrases from Scripture and CSSJ documents:

Have for God an expansive love which includes all that love is capable of and all that a heart can love in God and for God; an exalted love full of purpose and ardor, transcending the mass of creatures; a profound heartfelt love which is at your heart’s center and cannot be uprooted by any created power. (M. of P, 9# 2)
When the time for Pentecost was fulfilled, they were all in one place together. And suddenly there came a strong driving wind, and it filled the entire room. Then there appeared to them tongues as of fire, which parted and came to rest on each of them. And they were filled with the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2)
As for your zeal, it will always be proportionate to the love for God in your heart; see that it springs from a great love, and it will be great. (M of P., 11#)

Reflection

Now take some time for personal reflection.

On this Feast of Pentecost, which one of these quotes catches your attention and why?
Name the ways you are called to offer welcome and peace to others?
In what ways are you being invited to live more from your Spirit-Heart?
What are the signs of the Spirit working in your life right now?

Closing Prayer

Gracious and Loving God,
Jesus models for us how to be faithful
to your call in our daily lives.
May we be faithful to the grace and invitation
you offer to us in our daily lives to live full of Your love.
In You we live, pray, and work
for a more just and peaceful world. Amen

Reminder

“Our work is simply to be standing open and willing. God will do the emptying and the filling, and God is very good at God’s work.” (Cathy Nerney)

Welcoming the Holy