I finished the last Mass this past Sunday and remembered that I had forgotten to encourage everyone to wear red when they came to church this weekend for Pentecost.  No doubt, some of you remembered to wear red anyway.  That color is worn by the priest and deacon at Mass to symbolize the "fire" of the Holy Spirit that came upon the apostles that first Pentecost.  Of course, regardless of what color we wear on Pentecost or any other time, it is important that all of us who have received the Holy Spirit, beginning with the sacrament of Baptism, realize how blessed we are to have the Spirit within us always.  Unfortunately, some of us need to take the time to give thanks for this great gift and pray that He will daily "kindle in us the fire of God's love".  This can, and will, lead us to approach others as Christ did with kindness, hospitality, and a willingness to serve them with Christ-like care.

Besides giving us the greatest of gifts, the hope and promise of eternal life through His life, death, resurrection and ascension, Christ gave and gives the power and presence of the Holy Spirit to guide us and strengthen us in our pilgrim journey to the fullness of life in heaven.  May we NEVER take this for granted, but share with joy this good news with others.

A Blessed Pentecost to all of you!