Receive the Power Verbum Dei Holds Pentecost Recollection in CTK Parish

Who is the holy spirit? This was the question Fr. James McTavish used to open the day’s talk during the Verbum Dei recollection that was held on June 12, 2019 at CTK Parish. It was aptly entitled “Receive the Power,” taken from Acts 1:8 when the Holy Spirit first descended on the disciples. Because the Holy Spirit is probably the least understood person of the Trinity, it’s important for us to know Him, learn to relate to Him, and understand how He manifests Himself.

The Holy Spirit has been represented as a dove, fire, wind, and water in Scripture but, most importantly, He is a Person. He has intentions. He shows willfulness and discretion. He loves, intercedes, teaches, advocates, consoles, and prays. He is the Principal Agent of the Mission.

We receive the Spirit when we believe in Him, and we build a relationship through prayer and faith. Jesus promises the gift of the Holy Spirit to those who seek Him. We know the Spirit is working through us when we are drawn to Christ. The fruit of the Spirit is the result of His presence in our lives. In Galatians 5:22-23 the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

The celebration of the Holy Eucharist followed after an hour of prayer and sharing.

Fr. Bong Guinoo and Fr. James McTavish presided over the Mass where the readings were taken from Acts 2:1-11, the coming of the Spirit, and John 2:19-23.

Father Bong gave an enlightening homily on the Spirit’s role in molding us into the image of Christ, so that we may live in His likeness. Just as the Apostles received the gift of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, we too can enjoy the fullness and power of the Holy Spirit working in our lives, enhancing our relationship with God.

In the afternoon, Sr. Cecilia shared her experience on the gifts of the Spirit, especially fortitude. That gift helped her overcome fears and gave her courage to take risks for Christ. It enabled her to stand up for what is right even if it meant rejection.

Judy Tan talked about the fruit of generosity by giving time, talent, and treasure selflessly to glorify God and make a difference.

Dr. Resti Bautista spoke on the fruit of faithfulness. It is the result of the Spirit working in us. For the Spirit is our seal of faithfulness, our witness to God’s promise of salvation.

Recitation of the Rosary of the Spirit was led by Sister Cecilia and Sister Iria, a German Verbum Dei missionary working in Budapest, then led the rosary in different languages to symbolize friendship and solidarity. It was a beautiful moment of collaboration and harmony. We were also blessed to have the presence of Sister Pearl and Brother Jojo, two Verbum Dei missionaries in formation.

What a spirit-filled day it was! Nothing can fill our hearts more with peace and contentment than the certitude that the Holy Spirit loves us and lives in us. Awareness of His presence in us leads us to renew ourselves and to respect and care for one another. It gives us courage, wisdom, and strength to communicate the Word of God to others.

Let’s call on the Holy Spirit to awaken and unleash in us His love and power, so that we may be renewed, empowered, and encouraged to become apostles of Jesus Christ. Let’s ask the help of the Blessed Virgin Mary so that we too can be faithful to the promptings of the Spirit. As Verbum Dei founder Fr. Jaime Bonet, FMVD, prayed, “Grant me, dear Mama, a detailed and meticulous fidelity, delicate, attentive and grateful to the Holy Spirit. Help me to respond promptly, immediately and sharply to His insinuations.”