24/05/2026
Today is Pentecost, when the Church celebrates the gift of the Holy Spirit and the birth of its mission in the world.
In the Gospel, the risen Christ comes to his disciples in their fear and uncertainty, speaking peace and breathing his Spirit upon them. What was closed and guarded is opened, and those who were afraid are sent out with purpose and authority.
Pentecost reminds us that the life of the Church is sustained by the presence of the Holy Spirit, who brings peace, renews our hearts and sends us out to share the good news.
Scripture reading: John 20:19–22
‘When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.”
After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then 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.”
When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”’
Prayer
Holy Spirit,
you come to us in our fear
and fill us with peace and new life.
Breathe your life into your Church,
renew our hearts
and send us out in faith and courage.
Help us to share the good news of Christ
in word and in action,
guided by your presence.
Amen.
