Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and the birth of the Early Church.

This outpouring of the Holy Spirit empowered the Apostles to continue Christ’s mission of spreading the Good News throughout the world.

Pentecost serves as an invitation for Catholics to embrace the Holy Spirit’s life-changing presence.

It encourages us to be open to the Spirit’s guidance, to cultivate His fruits and gifts, and to actively participate in the mission of the Church.

By doing so, Catholics strive to bear witness to the love of God, spread the Gospel, and build communities of faith, hope, and charity.

Here are five things every Catholic should know about the Holy Spirit:

Caroline Perkins, ChurchPOP

1) The Holy Spirit is a person.

The Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Holy Trinity.

2) The Holy Spirit is fully God.

All three persons of the Holy Trinity are fully God and “equal in glory.” As a divine person, Catholics believe the Holy Spirit possesses the same nature and essence as the Father and the Son, sharing in their divinity.

3) The Holy Spirit has always existed.

God eternally exists as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Caroline Perkins, ChurchPOP

4) You receive the Holy Spirit at Baptism and Confirmation.

We first receive the Holy Spirit in Baptism. Then, the Sacrament of Confirmation strengthens in us the gift of the Holy Spirit. This indwelling presence helps believers grow in holiness, conforming them more closely to the image of Christ.

5) Christians are temples of the Holy Spirit.

We have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. We must live accordingly. He provides believers with spiritual gifts and fruits, empowers them to live virtuous lives, and guides the Church in its mission.

The Holy Spirit is considered essential for understanding and living out the teachings of Jesus Christ, fostering unity within the Church, and promoting the growth of faith among believers.

Caroline Perkins, ChurchPOP

Saint Augustine’s Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit,
that my thoughts may all be holy.
Act in me, O Holy Spirit,
that my work, too, may be holy.
Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit,
that I love but what is holy.
Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit,
to defend all that is holy.
Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit,
that I always may be holy.

Amen.