In one of the gospel readings for the Solemnity of Pentecost, Jesus promises his disciples he will send his Spirit to them to “teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.”

Jesus is Lord! Let’s say it together: Jesus is Lord! Does it sound strange on the tongue? Are we shy to pronounce these words?

Later on that day, the disciples had gathered together, but, fearful of the Jews, had locked all the doors in the house. Jesus entered, stood among them, and said, “Peace to you.” Then he showed them his hands and side.

Words are inadequate to describe the Holy Spirit. Symbols include tongues of fire or a gentle dove.

Let us ask God for a spirit of forgiveness.

They gathered in a large crowd. The story in the Acts of the Apostles sounds at first like an Israelite religious assembly.

The Blessed Trinity inhabits the soul by . . . delighting its will in the Holy Spirit.  —Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591), The Living Flame of Love