On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, "Peace be with you." When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit." John 20:19-22
They were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke of the great things God had done, alleluia. Acts 2:4,11
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Father, send now Your Spirit over all the names we have received. Let the Holy Spirit live in their hearts. May Our Blessed Virgin Mary be our Advocate. God of Spirit and Truth, today we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit. Like the Apostles and Mary in the Upper Room, we are at times afraid and need to be assured that You are with us. As Your Spirit enlightened them, may Your Spirit give us the gifts we so desire. Like the Apostles and Mary, may we go out into the world to proclaim Your words.
In the musical treasure of Gregorian chant, there are some compositions that stand out for their exceptional beauty. The Sequence for Pentecost Sunday, Veni Sancte Spiritus, a prayer to the Holy Spirit, is a melody of unusual beauty. The words and melody blend together so well that it is a fine example of Saint Augustine's observation that one prays twice through song. The melody reflects supplication to the Holy Spirit, revealing a desire for His Love to fill us. Alleluias are not always joyous acclamations, but are often humble interior prayers as is this one. It has become the customary prayer to the Holy Spirit.
Come Holy Spirit. Come through Mary.
May 27, 2012
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