For your assistance in praying with the Church community this week, the liturgical Sunday readings read at all the masses are provided below, with some suggestions of activities that you and your family might do during the week to help sustain the messages of the Sunday gospel.
Please let us know if these suggestions are helpful for you or your family.
May 19, 2013, Pentecost Sunday
"Then he breathed on them and said, 'Receive the Holy Spirit.'" (John 20:22)
READINGS
Acts 2:1-11
Romans 8:8-17
Gospel of John 14:15-16, 23-26
Readings Here
REFLECTION
Pentecost, which means fiftieth, marks the end of the Easter season and celebrates the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles. Pentecost completes the great event of the Death-Resurrection of Jesus. It is all part of one marvelous mystery through God who has given his very life to humankind.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, come into our hearts and change them from stone to flesh. By the power of your Spirit, overcome fear and anxiety and hatred. Fill us with courage and peace and love. We pray this with sincere hearts. Amen.
FAMILY DISCUSSION/ACTIVITY
Monday As a family pray the Joyful Mysteries Click for Video of the Rosary. Pray for all those families who have loved ones in the military.
Tuesday In celebration of Pentecost, read again the account in Acts, which happens to be the first reading for Sunday. (Acts 2:1-11)
Wednesday Pentecost is the birthday of the Church. Pray for all the faithful to be inspired by the Holy Spirit and to be instruments of peace.
Thursday St. Paul names some of the gifts that come from the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faith, mildness, chastity. Meditate on these gifts in your life.
Friday
Gifts are given for the sake of the whole community. As a family do something this week for the community.
Saturday The gift of Counsel. Try to cheer up someone today who is sad or suffering. Pray to the Spirit for this gift.
PRAYER
Come, Holy Spirit, fill our hearts. Kindle in them the fire of your love. Renew us and renew all the earth. Keep us always close to You. Amen.
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