In five weeks we will celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit - Pentecost. And while we are still focused on the great joy of the Lord’s Resurrection, this can also be a good moment to begin preparing for the Holy Spirit’s arrival on Pentecost. We can work at falling more deeply in love with the Great Unknown.
In the words of St. Josemaria from Christ is Passing By, “The solemn coming of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost was not an isolated event. There is hardly a page in the Acts of the Apostles where we fail to read about him and the action by which he guides, directs and enlivens the life and work of the early christian community. It is he who inspires the preaching of St Peter, who strengthens the faith of the disciples, who confirms with his presence the calling of the gentiles, who sends Saul and Barnabas to the distant lands where they will open new paths for the teaching of Jesus. In a word, his presence and doctrine are everywhere.”
To prepare our minds, hearts and souls for the coming of the Holy Spirit, we are sharing some spiritual resources to help you in that journey.
Resources to Prepare for the Holy Spirit on Pentecost:
Books:
The Holy Spirit by Edward Leen
This book answers the needs of many people for a deeper and more accurate knowledge of the Great Unknown. The Holy Spirit's role in creation as the fountain of life and the first of God's gifts is studied along with the Spirit's mission, divine filiation, and the principles of supernatural growth.
The Holy Spirit Within by St. John of Avila
This collection of homilies by the saint begins each sermon with a short introduction and then come to a particular point supported by Scripture texts, quotations from the Fathers, well-chosen illustrations, and his own original insights.
About the Holy Spirit by Francisca Javiera del Valle
This 10-day devotion leads even the most learned theologian to acknowledge the healthy and profound doctrine expounded. Yet it becomes clear from reading that the book is not written by a theologian but by a soul who has first-hand experience in the school of the Divine Spirit.
In the School of the Holy Spirit by Jacques Philippe
This short and easy-to-read book will lead you to be more attentive to the movements of the Holy Spirit in your life as you learn to value the third person of the Trinity as the Sanctifier of your soul. Philippe explains the rewards of being attentive to the Holy Spirit, and provides simple and concrete ways to grow in this inner sensitivity.
Meditations:
Pentecost Sunday: The Coming of the Holy Spirit - a meditation from In Conversation with God, Volume 2.
The Great Unknown - a homily by St. Josemaria Escriva found in Christ is Passing By.
Pentecost Sunday - a podcast meditation from the St. Josemaria Institute.
Extras:
Novena to the Holy Spirit for the 7 Gifts from EWTN. (Begins on Friday of the 6th Week of Easter)
