Because each one heard them speaking in his own language, they were astounded, and in amazement they asked, “Are not all these people who are speaking Galileans?”
From beginning to end, the pontificate of Pope Saint John Paul II captured the world’s attention. As the first non-Italian pope in more than 400 years, he helped inspire the fall of Communism, traveled the globe, and connected with people across cultures and languages. When asked how he managed such an extraordinary ministry, he famously said, “You would have to ask the Holy Spirit! The Pope prays as the Holy Spirit permits him to pray.”
Even the days surrounding his death revealed the unifying power of the Holy Spirit. Millions followed his final days and funeral through the media, while nearly two million pilgrims came to Rome to pay their respects. On the night before the funeral, hundreds of thousands filled the streets in prayer, many waiting for confession at outdoor confessionals. World leaders and religious representatives from many faiths gathered for the funeral. As the wind turned the pages of the Gospel book resting on his casket, it felt almost like another Pentecost.
In many ways, John Paul II’s pontificate reflected what God continues to do through the Church: bringing unity to a divided world. In today’s reading from Acts, the crowd is amazed because each person hears the Apostles in his or her own language. Pentecost was more than a miracle of speech; it was the grace of God creating unity through genuine communication. That kind of communication requires not only speaking but truly listening. Too often today, people simply “say their line” rather than really hear one another.
Pentecost is the fulfillment of Easter. Easter celebrates Christ’s victory over death; Pentecost celebrates the gift of the Holy Spirit giving life to the Church. The Acts of the Apostles remind us that the risen Lord still works through ordinary people empowered by the Spirit. In dramatic moments like the life of John Paul II, and in simple moments like respectful conversations between people who disagree, God’s grace continues to unite, strengthen, and heal us.
SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION – During our 12:00 pm mass today, 14 of our parishioners will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Some are middle school and high school students, others have participated in our Adult Faith Formation program, and some have met with me individually. Having completed their initiation into the church, they are now empowered by the Holy Spirit to live their faith while drawing others into a relationship with Jesus and the Church. The church will be enriched by these newly-confirmed disciples.
WELCOME, FR. REYNALDO OMAMALIN – Fr. Rey has been assigned by Bishop Barres as our new Associate Pastor effective June 24. Fr. Rey is a priest of the Diocese of Talibon in the Philippines. He has spent the last few months at St. Joseph’s in Kings Park as he prepared to take on a permanent assignment in our diocese. We look forward to welcoming him here to St. Rose of Lima.
FR. MICHAEL – As previously announced, Fr. Michael Iroh will be joining two other Nigerian Vincentian priests as they take over the administration of St. Martin of Tours parish in Bethpage. We will have a farewell for Fr. Michael after the 12:00 pm mass on Sunday, June 21. More details to follow.
GRADUATIONS – Throughout the final weeks of May, many college students have completed their studies and received diplomas. As new graduates, they face a new time in life, what some refer to as “adulting.” We offer congratulations to all our college graduates and offer our prayers and support as they begin fulfilling careers and enriching vocations. In addition, I invite all of our new graduates to connect with our growing community of Young Adults. Please contact JT Parker, jt@fiveloavesmin.org or Annaleigh Ciaravino, AnnaleighC@srolchurch.org to be added to the mailing list and group chat.
MEMORIAL DAY – So many of our Long Island communities were founded by veterans and their families. This week we remember those who never came home, paying the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Amid this long weekend, don’t forget to pray for the lost and those who mourn them.
Peace!
