Fr. Bob’s Homily – Pentecost Sunday

Many might remember the 1980 Winter Olympics, held in Lake Placid, New York. That year, the United States men’s hockey team wasn’t expected to go far. Made up of young, inexperienced college players, they were crushed in a warm-up game by the dominant Russian team.

Then came the Olympic tournament. The Americans surprisingly tied with Sweden, upset the heavily-favored Czech team, and advanced to the medal round. Then came the rematch with the Soviets – and this time, the game counted.

The Russians led for much of the game. But against all odds, the Americans tied it, then scored the game-winning goal in the final minutes. The crowd erupted. People danced in the streets. The Russians were stunned. The world called it “The Miracle on Ice.”

That miracle offers us a lesson, and perhaps some insight today, on the Feast of Pentecost. Before the Holy Spirit arrived at the first Pentecost, the Apostles were confused, fearful and uncertain. Afterward, they were transformed – bold, passionate and ready to spread the Gospel. It was their miracle moment, and it changed everything. They were transformed in the most remarkable way imaginable.

But the Holy Spirit does not try to transform us into some sort of ideal Christian, so that we are carbon copies of one another. Look at St. Peter and St. Paul. They are vastly different from one another, but the Holy Spirit strengthens what is good and unique in them.

The Holy Spirit does the same with us. He works within each of us, shaping our unique gifts so that we may reflect Christ in our own distinct way. We are all different, but together, we build up the Body of Christ – His Church.

Too often, we resist the Spirit’s work in us. We just do not allow the Holy Spirit in. 

Maybe we’re afraid of change in our lives. Maybe we think true Christian living – generosity, love, reverence – will cost us too much. But the Holy Spirit is a tremendous gift, meant to transform and complete us.

It’s the same Spirit who overshadowed Mary and made her the Blessed Mother of God. The same Spirit who inspired the prophets of the Old Testament. The same Spirit who turned frightened disciples into fearless messengers. That same Spirit dwells in you – but only if you let Him.

Always remember Christ’s promise: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives, do I give to you.” That peace is the Holy Spirit – God’s presence within you. No one can take that from you.

As we celebrate Pentecost, we are reminded that 2025 is the Church’s Jubilee Year, with the theme, “Pilgrims of Hope.” Like those first disciples at the first Pentecost, we are sent out as pilgrims of hope, empowered by the Holy Spirit to carry Christ’s message of mercy, joy and redemption into a world longing for renewal.

My friends, open your hearts. Invite the Spirit in, to work with you. Then, like the Apostles, we can cry out: “Lord, send forth your Spirit. And renew the face of the earth.”