Summary of a Fr. Gerry Creedon homily from May 27, 2007
"The advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything." Jn 14:26
Many of us grew up in a church that spoke of the Holy Ghost. Since Vatican II, the Holy Spirit has become part of our vocabulary as Catholics. When you think of the Holy Spirit, what comes to mind? The congregation responded, "truth, wisdom, life, courage and love."
For my part, I relate the Holy Spirit to creation. I remember the Spirit of God bringing life in the book of Genesis, through the breath of God. In a time of ecological crisis, this dimension of the Sprit's work takes on new significance.
I also associate the Spirit with the prophetic word. Confirmation calls us to be witnesses to the truth. A contemporary example is the woman who brought Enron to account despite the accolades offered by Fortune magazine and the threat to her own career.
However I would like to focus on a third dimension of the Spirit's work, love. Remember the old prayer, "Send forth your spirit and enkindle in the hearts of the faithful the fire of your love."
The red vestments of the season brings home the centrality of passion. Each year more than 150 couples plan their weddings through St Charles. I like to set the grooms at ease before they process into the church to meet their brides. Recently I asked a groom if he were nervous. He answered that he was very much at peace. That morning he had awakened to see on a tree in his backyard a white dove; he saw it as a sign of good luck. I could have added that it was also a traditional symbol of the Spirit of love and peace. I often ask, "What was the most helpful aspect of your Pre-Cana preparation?" I expect grooms to answer the diocesan Engaged Encounter, or their meeting with me! Instead, those who have participated in our parish marriage preparation program answer, "The mentor couples' meetings."
We have about 19 couples who accompany our engaged couples, meeting with them 4 times in their homes, to dialogue on issues they have experienced in their married life. Four of these couples have had babies and need to refocus on the domestic church. We need more mentor couples. If you are interested in exploring this vital ministry, call the Parish office.
The disciples at the feast of the Ascension stood looking up at the sky. An angel had to come to ask, "You men of Galilee, why do you stand here looking up at the clouds?" They hid in fear in the Upper Room 'till the Spirit of God descended on them in Pentecost. Then they went out and proclaimed boldly.
The work of the church cannot be done by priests alone. The laity are empowered by the Holy Spirit. Who best to witness to the challenges and joys of the Sacrament of Matrimony than married people?
"To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit." 1 Cor 12:4