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CLICK HERE for the Readings of June 9th, 2019, Pentecost Sunday.
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On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended with power upon the Apostles, thus began the mission of the church in the world.
- Pope Benedict xvi, Homily on Pentecost Sunday 2006Prior to the Ascension into heaven, he ordered the Apostles “not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the power of the Father” (Acts of the Apostles 1: 4-5), then he asked them to stay together to prepare themselves to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The purpose of the Holy Spirit is to illuminate by revealing Christ is crucified and is risen, indicating the way to become like him — that is, instruments of the love of Christ in the world.
This day is also referred to as the birthday of the Church. The Church receives its mandate to go out and make disciples. The Church is therefore missionary by birth.
The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are: Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Piety and Fear of the Lord.
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