Pentecost: Gifting the Holy Spirit

Pentecost Sunday: May 24, 2026

Readings: Acts 2:1–11; Psalm 104:1, 24, 29–31, 34; 1 Corinthians 12:3–7, 12–13; John 20:19–23

Coming down of the Holy Spirit on the Virgin Mary and the Apostles
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In times of fear, we need someone to give us courage. In times of anxiety, we want someone to listen to us. In times of grief, we need someone to support us. In times of hopelessness, we need someone to give us hope. In times of threat, we need someone to stand by us. The death and crucifixion of Jesus brought the disciples to their knees. Not only could they not understand what happened to their Master, but they feared death. In such a time, the Holy Spirit comes down upon them and transforms them completely. As we celebrate the feast of Pentecost on this Sunday, the liturgical readings invite us to delve deeper into the mystery of the Third Person of the Trinity, that is, the Holy Spirit, and embrace it completely. 

1. Pentecost: Brings Life-Changing Moments

The feast of Pentecost is the celebration of God’s Spirit poured out upon the Church and upon every believer. The readings of this Sunday invite us to reflect on the Holy Spirit, who brings courage in fear, unity in diversity, and life in a wounded world. In the Acts of the Apostles (2:1–11), the disciples are gathered together in fear and uncertainty. Suddenly, the sound of a mighty wind fills the house and tongues of fire rest upon them. The frightened disciples become courageous witnesses. The Spirit changes ordinary people into fearless proclaimers of God’s love. 

Pentecost reminds us that God does not abandon His people in moments of confusion or weakness. The Spirit comes precisely when hearts are closed, when hope is fading, and when courage is lacking. Often in our own lives, we remain locked behind the doors of fear—fear of failure, rejection, uncertainty, or suffering. Yet the Spirit of God can still enter those locked places and awaken new life within us.

2. Pentecost: A New Way of Being in the World

One of the most beautiful signs of Pentecost is that people from many nations hear the disciples speaking in their own languages. The Spirit does not erase differences; rather, the Spirit creates communion amidst diversity. In today’s divided world, filled with conflict, wars, hatred, and misunderstanding, Pentecost becomes a powerful invitation to build bridges instead of walls. The Holy Spirit teaches us the language of love, compassion, forgiveness, and understanding. Wherever people listen deeply to one another, respect differences, and work for peace, the Spirit of Pentecost is alive.

In the second reading, St. Paul reminds the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 12:3–7) that though there are many gifts, there is only one Spirit. Each person is gifted differently, yet every gift is meant for the common good. Sometimes we compare ourselves with others and feel inadequate, or we become proud of our own abilities. Paul teaches us that every person has a unique role in the Body of Christ. No one is insignificant. Pentecost calls us to recognize our gifts and place them at the service of others. 

3. Pentecost: God Stands by us through His Holy Spirit

The Gospel of John 20:19–23 depicts the disciples hiding behind locked doors after Jesus' death. Into that fear-filled room, the risen Lord comes and says, “Peace be with you.” Before giving them a mission, Jesus gives them peace. The Spirit is not given to create anxiety or superiority, but to bring inner peace and reconciliation. Jesus then breathes upon them and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” Just as God breathed life into humanity at creation, Jesus now breathes new spiritual life into His disciples. 

Pentecost is therefore a new creation. The Spirit renews hearts, restores broken relationships, and gives humanity a fresh beginning. Jesus also entrusts the disciples with the ministry of forgiveness. A Spirit-filled person cannot live with hatred, bitterness, or revenge. The Spirit softens hearts and enables reconciliation. In families, communities, institutions, and nations, forgiveness remains one of the greatest signs of the Spirit’s presence. Pentecost is an ongoing experience in the life of the Church and in our personal lives. May the Holy Spirit guide our thoughts, words, and actions so that we may become instruments of peace, unity, and hope in the world.

Questions for self-reflection

1. What are the fears or “locked doors” in my life that prevent me from fully trusting God and others?
2. Do I allow the Holy Spirit to guide my decisions, words, and relationships each day?
3. How do I use the gifts and talents God has given me for the service of others and the good of the community?

Prayer

Loving God, on this Pentecost Sunday, we thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit who renews, strengthens, and guides us each day. Fill our hearts with Your peace and help us to overcome our fears with faith and courage. Teach us to use our gifts in the service of others and to become instruments of unity, forgiveness, and compassion in our families and communities. May Your Spirit continue to lead us closer to You and inspire us to live as joyful witnesses of Your love in the world. We make this prayer in Jesus' Holy Name, Amen.

- Fr Olvin Veigas, SJ

E-mail: olvinveigas@jesuits.net

Blog: Celebrate Faith

Video: YouTube

21 May 2026

Ascension of the Lord - Marking a New Beginning of His Presence

The Ascension of the Lord: May 17, 2026

Readings: Acts 1:1-11; Psalm 47:2-3, 6-7, 8-9; Ephesians 1:17-23; Matthew 28:16-20

Jesus is being ascended into heaven
To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/jjgQFk1lIN8

We may feel, sometimes, that everything is perfect. Then, suddenly, something unexpected might happen, and everything changes. We expect many things from our dear ones. However, things could be blurry and uncertain. Nothing is static, including our expectations and the outcome of events. This is exactly what happened to the eleven disciples when they said goodbye to the Risen Lord in a hurry. Even before they could capture the whole event that was happening before their eyes, everything became history. But the unexpected event of Jesus being taken up into heaven, surrounded by angels and the heavenly host, the disciples came down the mountain rejoicing and singing psalms. As we gather together to celebrate the Ascension Sunday of our Lord,  the liturgical readings give us a very vivid account of the Ascension and invite us to be absorbed by this mystery. 

1. Ascension: Not about Absence, instead Eternal Presence

The feast of the Ascension of the Lord often gives the impression that Jesus is leaving the earth and departing from His disciples. Yet the Gospel of Matthew ends not with absence, but with a promise of abiding presence: “I am with you always, until the end of the age.” The Ascension is therefore not about distance, but about a new way of Christ being present among His people. Jesus entrusts His mission to ordinary disciples, assuring them that they will never walk alone.

Easter - Giving Reasons for the Hope of Others

Sixth Sunday of Easter: May 10, 2026

Readings: Acts 8:5–8, 14–17; Psalm 66:1–7, 16, 20; 1 Peter 3:15–18; John 14:15–21

St Peter Preaching to the crowds

Christianity, as a religion, is built on certain values and principles: Love, compassion, peace, joy, mercy, kindness, patience, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control and many more. These are also the fruits of the Holy Spirit (St. Paul in Galatians 5:22–23). The boldness and courage the disciples of Jesus experienced after the resurrection are remarkable. Instead of hate and revenge, love and reason become the strength of the disciples of Jesus. They preach good in place of evil, suffering in place of revenge, righteousness in place of unrighteousness. St Peter, as the head of the early Church, advises Christians to give reasons for the hope of others. Make others understand the faith in Jesus through intelligent conversations. In other words, gentleness and compassion become the instruments to preach the good news of Jesus Christ. The liturgical readings on this Sunday precisely do that. Only love is credible, and courage is possible when you carry with you the Risen Lord. 

1. Love is shown more in deeds than words

In the Gospel of  John 14:15–21, Jesus speaks tenderly to His disciples before His suffering and death. He knows that fear, confusion, and loneliness are beginning to fill their hearts. Yet His words are not words of abandonment; they are words of promise, companionship, and love. Jesus assures them that although He may leave physically, He will never leave them orphaned. The Father will send the Advocate, the Spirit of Truth, who will remain with them forever.

Jesus: The Way, the Truth and the Life

Fifth Sunday of Easter: May 03, 2026

Readings: Acts 6:1–7; Psalm 33:1–2, 4–5, 18–19; 1 Peter 2:4–9; John 14:1–12

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Innocence is part of our lives. There is always a little corner for this aspect of our lives where we become childlike. We may be mature, adult and commanding many things, yet there are things which are unfamiliar to us, and often we might appear very silly. Yet, this phenomenon of our lives might give us sometimes joy and peace, moreover, a sense that we are ultimately human and we need guides on our way. On the Fifth Sunday of Easter, we have those wonderful readings which remind us that we must always be ready to learn, unlearn and relearn in our lives. This will make us very happy and face the challenges of life courageously and confidently.

1. Shifting our Gears of Courage and Trust

In the Gospel of St John 14:1–12, Jesus speaks directly to the restless heart: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” These are not mere comforting words, but an invitation into a deeper trust. Jesus senses the anxiety of his disciples—the uncertainty of what lies ahead, the fear of losing his physical presence—and he responds not with explanations, but with relationship. He calls them, and us, to believe: “Believe in God, believe also in me.”

Shepherding with Love and Care

Fourth Sunday in Easter: April 26, 2026

Readings: Acts 2:14, 36–41; Psalm 23:1–6; 1 Peter 2:20–25; John 10:1–10

Le Bon Pasteur by Philippe de Champaigne
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God enters into our lives in unexpected ways. As deeply religious and convinced of God's presence permeating around us, we believe that it is God who is guiding us and shepherding us. While looking at the incredible creation in which we live, one thing is certain: there should be some mighty power behind all of this. The world around us and all that it contains is so systematically woven and engineered that there is some sort of order in God's creation. Unfortunately, it is we who create disorder and destruction around us. As we savour the blissfulness of the Easter Season, on this Fourth Sunday of Easter, the liturgical readings are so vibrant and encouraging that all of us are invited to follow Jesus, the Good Shepherd, ardently and lovingly. 

1. Listening to the right voices

On this Fourth Sunday of Easter, the Gospel of John 10:1–10 places before us the striking image of the Good Shepherd and the sheep who recognize his voice. It is a passage that speaks quietly yet powerfully about trust, belonging, and the deep relationship between Christ and those who follow him.

Emmaus and Us - Awakening at the Eucharist

Third Sunday of Easter: 19 April 2026

Readings: Acts 2:14, 22–28; Psalm 16:1–2, 5, 7–11; 1 Peter 1:17–21; Luke 24:13–35

The disciples of Emmaus with Jesus at the breaking of the bread

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What is it that keeps our memories alive? Is it the past experiences or acts that made an imprint on our memories? We remember the past based on our experiences, memories and recollections. Memory is essential to carry forward the past. Memories evoke both good and bad feelings in us. We can not live without our past; however, the memories make us come back alive and relive those past experiences. Memories have a future. Our future is determined by the past, especially those things which are life-giving and fulfilling. We carry the past within us, and yet we make choices about what we would like to carry with us so that they give meaning and purpose in our lives. As we celebrate the Third Sunday of Easter, the liturgical readings invite us to rejoice with the disciples of Emmaus. They found purpose in their lives by celebrating the Eucharist, which brought back memories of Jesus at the Last Supper. This incident never stops them but makes them run without stopping in proclaiming who Jesus really was.

1. Easter: God meets in our narrations of fears and frustrations

The Gospel of Luke 24:13–35, the journey to Emmaus, is a deeply human and profoundly consoling resurrection narrative. It speaks not only of encountering the risen Lord, but of how He meets us in the ordinary paths of our lives—especially when we are confused, threatened, feared, disappointed, destroyed, discouraged, or lost.

Diving into the Mercy of God with Peace

Second Sunday of Easter (or Sunday of Divine Mercy): April 12, 2026

Readings: Acts 2:42–47; Psalm 118:2–4, 13–15, 22–24; 1 Peter 1:3–9; John 20:19–31

To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here:https://youtu.be/-RsIhzZMiYg

Who does not doubt? Belief is a very subjective matter and is based on one's convictions and experiences. Doubt arises when certainty is unclear. It may be because either we have not experienced it, or we are not convinced of it. We make conscious decisions in our lives. They are based on our experiences, assumptions, knowledge or inner convictions. We cannot believe everyone and in everything. However, we can believe based on our life experiences. The aspect of faith or convictions of faith can enable us to believe what we see, touch, smell, taste and feel. When we have to believe in something beyond space and time, we need the grace of intelligence and wisdom. Knowledge alone does not suffice us to believe something we have never heard of. As we celebrate the Second Sunday of Easter, which is also called Divine Mercy Sunday, the Church invites us to gaze at the Resurrected Jesus not with our exterior eyes, but with our eyes of faith.  

1. Easter brings the gift of peace and reconciliation 

For the Jews, the first day of the week is Sunday. Saturday is a Sabbath Day. So the event of the appearance of the resurrected Jesus happens on a Sunday evening. The frightened disciples are gathered behind locked doors—fearful, uncertain, and fragile. Into this closed space, Jesus comes and stands among them. There is no rebuke, no accusation for their abandonment, no reminder of their failure. Instead, there is a gift: “Peace be with you.”

Easter Sunday - Christ is Truly Risen

The Resurrection of the Lord/The Easter Sunday: April 05, 2026

Readings: Acts 10:34, 37–43; Psalm 118:1–2, 16–17, 22–23; Colossians 3:1–4; John 20:1–9

The Resurrection of our Lord

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The message of Easter is very clear: Christ is truly risen! The events that followed the crucifixion of our Lord give a rare glimpse of who Jesus was: Fully human and fully divine. With the resurrection of Jesus, the divinity of Jesus shines brighter than before. Jesus is no longer constrained by time and space. Jesus makes himself visible to everyone who longs to see him or waits on him. The mission of Jesus gets transformed now as St Paul would say that Christ "becomes all in all."

1. At Easter, it's Time to Believe

Easter dawn breaks not with noise or spectacle, but with a quiet, almost hidden revelation—the stone rolled away, the tomb empty, and hearts slowly awakening to a truth too great to grasp at once. The Gospel of John 20:1–9 draws us into this delicate moment of discovery. Mary Magdalene comes while it is still dark, carrying within her the weight of loss. Peter and the beloved disciple run toward the tomb, caught between confusion and hope. What they find is not the Risen Lord immediately, but signs—linen cloths lying there, the absence that speaks of a presence beyond death.

Good Friday - Accomplishing the Final Act with Love

Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion: April 03, 2026

Readings: Isaiah 52:13-53:12; Hebrews 4:14-16,5:7-9; John 18:1-19:42

Crucifixion of Jesus

To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/eha_1oDKM5c

What a day! And it is called Good Friday!! The death of God-man on the Cross, and still we call this day Good Friday!!! The poignant moment of the death of the Messiah makes us stand still and listen to the inner voice of our being. What is this all about? Why must an innocent man die on a Cross? The most brutal, terribly painful and awkwardly humiliating death a person could go through in the Roman Empire was crucifixion.  It was such a heinous death that no one dared to undergo. But here we have on this day, we commemorate that brutal death of our Saviour and Master year after year. The same death, the same event, the same humiliating expressions, and yet we try to find meaning for our lives through devotion and faith. 

1. Pushing the evil away and not reconciling

As we stand at the foot of the Cross of our Saviour and kiss it with a sense of reverence, it brings to our mind the stark reality of evil, wickedness, jealousy, envy, animosity, grudges, scorn, and hostility in this world and in the lives of people. As we scroll through the Word of God in the Holy Bible, it becomes certain that evil can take over good and has a say for some time. Perhaps, evil might not win continuously or eternally, but it has its say that could be detrimental to the life of the person.  The Word of God tells us emphatically that Jesus "went on doing good." Then what went wrong in the life of Jesus to carry the Cross to Calvary?