“It is evident from its celebration that the effect of the sacrament of Confirmation is the special outpouring of the Holy Spirit as once granted to the apostles on the day of Pentecost. From this fact, Confirmation brings an increase and deepening of baptismal grace. Now get this. It roots us more deeply in the divine filiation, making us cry, Abba, Father. It unites us. It unites us more firmly to Christ. It increases the gifts of the Holy Spirit in us. It renders our bond with the Church more perfect. It gives us a special strength of the Holy Spirit to spread and defend the faith by word and action as true witnesses of Christ, to confess the name of Christ boldly and never, ever to be ashamed of the cross. Recall then that you have received the spiritual seal, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of right judgment and courage, the Spirit of knowledge and reverence, the Spirit of holy fear in God’s presence. Guard what you have received. God the Father has marked you with his sign. Christ the Lord has confirmed you and has placed his pledge, the Spirit, in your hearts.” – Catechism of the Catholic Church 1302-130
You received the Holy Spirit at your baptism and again confirmed at your Confirmation.
You now have within you a special strength to live this faith.The world is waiting for you. You have that special strength.Walk in it.Walk in it. Shake the world up.
It was at the beginning of this year’s journey with and to the Holy Spirit that we prayed with St. Pope John Paul II to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Today, at the birth of the Catholic Church, let us reconfirm our commitment to receive the Holy Spirit and all He has to offer us.
Come Holy Spirit!!!
Holy Spirit, I ask you for the gift of Wisdom to better know You and Your divine perfections,
for the gift of Understanding to clearly discern the spirit of the mysteries of the holy faith,
for the gift of Counsel that I may live according to the principles of this faith,
for the gift of Knowledge that I may look for counsel in You and that I may always find it in You,
for the gift of Fortitude that no fear or earthly preoccupations would ever separate me from You,
for the gift of Piety that I may always serve Your Majesty with a filial love,
for the gift of the Fear of the Lord that I may dread sin, which offends You, O my God.
Come Holy Spirit!!!