Gospel Reading
John 20:19-23
Jesus appears to his disciples and gives them the gift of the Holy Spirit.

The season of Easter concludes this Sunday’s celebration, the feast of Pentecost. On Pentecost we celebrate the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. This event marks the beginning of the Church. The account in John’s Gospel also recounts how Jesus gave the gift of the Holy Spirit to his disciples.

Family Connection
Pentecost is sometimes called the birthday of the Church. The Gospel for Pentecost reminds us that the Church begins with the command to forgive. Within the family, the domestic Church, we learn how to forgive, and we learn to accept forgiveness. It is the gift of the Holy Spirit that enables us to do both.

As you gather as a family, sit quietly for a few minutes, inviting all to reflect upon their need to forgive and to receive forgiveness. If there is a situation or issue within the family that needs attention, spend some time reflecting upon the concern and how your family might address it. Read together this Sunday’s Gospel, John 20:19-23. Talk together about how Jesus gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit to help us in the work of forgiveness and to bring us peace. Pray together the Prayer of the Holy Spirit.

Lousia Vance
Religous Education Co-ordinator