Reflection for Pentecost Sunday 2021 (week beginning 23 May):
This Sunday is the great solemn feast of the Descent of the Holy Spirit. (Pentecost is the Greek word for 50).
50 days after Jesus’ Resurrection, the Holy Spirit was bestowed upon the Apostles in the presence of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Before his Ascension, Jesus had promised to send them a 2nd Advocate. He instructed them not to leave Jerusalem. They were to await the fulfilment of his promise.
Jesus himself had been the 1st Advocate. He had promised that he “would not leave them orphans”, so to speak.
The Holy Spirit is the very love that is God – the great mutual love between God the Father and God the Son.
In our times, the Holy Spirit was received at our Baptism, and again at Confirmation.
The Holy Spirit is known as the Paraclete – a Greek word meaning “Helper” – His role is that of Comforter, Consoler, Advocate.
Today, we pray to Him for 2 special intentions:
For an end to the pandemic.
For an end to all enmity in
Israel – Palestine and for the success of the ceasefire.
Good Shepherd Catholic Church 