Friday 3 June 2011

Ascension - Pentecost - Novena to the Holy Spirit

The Ascension of Jesus is recounted in the Acts of the Apostles as occurring 40 days after the Resurrection : 
"After his suffering he presented himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over the course of forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God."(Acts 1:3)

Yesterday (Ascension Thursday) was 40 days after Easter Sunday . In Canada the feast of the Ascension is transfered to Sunday - so we can celebrate with a full community.  One of the traditions of the Church is to pray in these 9 days (hence the term "novena") between Ascension and Pentecost for a out pouring of the Holy Spirit in our own lives, and in the life of our Community. It is particularly appropriate for our parish as we continue to celebrate Confirmation next week. I invite you to pray with me these days leading up to Pentecost this prayer seeking the 7 gifts of the Holy Spirit:
O Lord Jesus Christ, before ascending into heaven you promised to send the Holy Spirit to finish your work in the souls of your Apostles and Disciples. Grant that I may be open to the work of that same Spirit within me.
- Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom  
that I may not be attached to the perishable things of this world but seek the things that are eternal.
- Grant me the Spirit of Understanding  
to enlighten my mind with the light of your divine truth.
- Grant me the Spirit of Right Judgment  
that I may choose the surest way of pleasing God.
- Grant me the Spirit of Courage  
that I may bear my cross with you and that I may overcome all the obstacles that oppose my salvation.
- Grant me the Spirit of Knowledge  
that I may know God and know myself.
- Grant me the Spirit of Reverence  
that I may find the service of God sweet and attractive.
- Grant me the Spirit of Wonder and Awe  
that I may be filled with loving reverence towards God and may avoid anything that would displease him.
Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of your true disciples  and animate me in all things with your Spirit. Amen

Come Holy Ghost, Creator Blest,
And in our Hearts take up your rest,
Come with your grace and Heavenly Aid,
To fill the hearts which you have made.

O Comforter, to You we cry,
The Heavenly gift of God most high,
The fount of life and fire of love
And sweet anointing from above
Peace

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