“They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different tongues, as the Spirit enabled them to proclaim.” (Acts 2:4)

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Happy Pentecost Sunday! Today we celebrate the day when the promised Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles, transforming their fear into courage and sending them forth to proclaim the Good News to the ends of the earth. It is, in every sense, the birthday of the Church.

The powerful scene from the First Reading (Acts 2:1–11) reminds us that the Holy Spirit is not a distant idea, but a living reality. The wind, the fire, the voices in every language—all signs of God’s presence breaking through our barriers and calling us to unity. In that moment, people from every nation under heaven heard the mighty acts of God proclaimed in their own tongue. That same Spirit is still at work today, moving within our parish, our families, and our hearts.

In the Second Reading (1 Corinthians 12:3b–7, 12–13), St. Paul reminds us that though we are many, we are one body. Each of us is gifted by the Spirit in a unique way, and those gifts are meant to build up the Church. The beauty of Pentecost is not only in what happened, but in what continues to happen when we allow ourselves to be guided by the Spirit.

The Gospel (John 20:19–23) speaks of peace and forgiveness—two gifts Jesus offers His disciples through the Spirit. He breathes on them and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” He gives them—and us—the power to forgive and to heal. What a needed gift in our world today.

A Church of Many Voices – Pentecost at IHM

How fitting it is that today at IHM, we hear the Word of God proclaimed in several different languages—a beautiful sign of the Church's universality and the rich diversity of our parish community. Just as at the first Pentecost, the Spirit speaks through many tongues but brings one message: Christ is Lord!

To all who served as international lectors today, thank you for helping us experience Pentecost in a truly meaningful way.

✈️ A Pilgrimage for Everyone – France 2025

I also extend a heartfelt invitation to join our Parish Pilgrimage to France in 2025. This journey is open to everyone—whether you're seeking spiritual depth, cultural richness, or simply a new experience. While we will offer opportunities for prayer and Mass, all aspects are optional, and our experienced guides will make sure you feel welcomed and enriched at every step.

Learn more or register: www.ihmwaynenj.org/france-2025
 Early registration discount (5%) ends Thursday, June 13

Reflection Questions for the Week

1. How is the Holy Spirit trying to work in my life right now?

2. What gift has the Spirit given me that I might be overlooking—or hesitating to share?

3. How can I bring the peace of Christ and the Spirit of unity to someone this week?

Come, Holy Spirit—fill the hearts of Your faithful and kindle in us the fire of Your love. May this Pentecost renew us with zeal, purpose, and the joy of being part of the living Body of Christ.

In the fire of the Spirit,
Fr. Matt