Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Parish

Today we reflect on a transformative moment in the history of our faith as recounted in the Gospel of John 20:19-23. This passage captures a pivotal encounter between the risen Christ and His disciples. It is a moment that foreshadows the birth of the Church and sets the stage for the mission that would spread the Good News across the world.

The First Pentecost

In the Gospel, we find the disciples huddled together in a room, doors locked in fear of the authorities. Despite their apprehension, Jesus comes and stands among them. His first words are, “Peace be with you.” This simple greeting reassures them, dispelling their fears and doubts with His presence. It is essential to note that Jesus’ appearance was not merely a comforting visit; it was a commissioning.

Just as the Father sent Jesus, He now sends the disciples. To equip them for the mission, Jesus breathes on them and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” This act of breathing life into His followers echoes the creation story when God breathed life into Adam. Here, Jesus breathes the new life of the Spirit into His disciples, marking the first Pentecost.

The Call to Mission

The commissioning of the disciples is a call to mission that extends to us today. Each of us, baptized and confirmed in the faith, is entrusted with the responsibility to spread the message of Jesus’ resurrection and the promise of salvation. The mission is not reserved for apostles or clergy alone but for all believers. We are called to be bearers of peace, forgiveness, and love in a world yearning for hope.

This mission is profound because it is not just a task but a way of life. It is about embodying the teachings of Christ in our daily interactions, exemplifying His love, mercy, and compassion. The Sacrament of Confirmation, which many of our young people will receive this weekend, is a reaffirmation of this mission. Through the gifts of the Holy Spirit, they are strengthened to be courageous witnesses of the faith.

Spreading the Good News

As we reflect on today’s Gospel and the Sacrament of Confirmation, let us consider how we can actively participate in spreading the Good News. It might be through small acts of kindness, engaging in honest conversations about faith, or volunteering our time and resources for those in need. Every action rooted in love and guided by the Spirit contributes to the mission of the Church.

The promise of the resurrection is too profound to be kept within the confines of our hearts or homes. Like the disciples, we are called to unlock the doors of fear and step into the world with boldness and joy, proclaiming that Christ is risen.

Prayer for the Confirmands

Let’s turn our hearts to prayer, especially for those who will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation this weekend:

Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, and for the Holy Spirit who empowers us to live out our faith.
We pray for these children who stand before You today, ready to receive the fullness of Your Spirit through Confirmation.
Fill them with Your wisdom, understanding, and courage.
May they become fearless witnesses of the Gospel, spreading Your love and peace to the ends of the earth.
Guide them as they embark on this journey of faith,
And may they always find strength and comfort in Your presence.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.