1. The Holy Spirit Chapter 12

2. The Holy Spirit’s Mission  Third person of the Holy Trinity.  Also known as the Holy Ghost – changed due to a change in the use of language.  Some Key Scriptural References:  Genesis 1:1-2 – the “wind/spirit of God swept over the face of the waters.” (wind – ruah – from the Hebrew which means breath or spirit.)  Old Testament – “spirit of God” associated with prophecy, or God speaking through the prophets.  New Testament  Gospel of Luke – sometimes referred to as the Gospel of the Holy Spirit, contains many references to the Holy Spirit.  Some examples -- Baptism of Jesus (3:22), Annunciation (1:35)  Mission of the Holy Spirit – sent by God the Father and the Son to continue Christ’s work of salvation and transforming the world. He is the Advocate – who guides and transforms us.

3. Homework  Attend a daily Mass/Communion during Lent. Monday to Friday in the school chapel. Get a pass from the priest or deacon.  Test on Chapter 11 and 12, Tuesday (March 17)

4. The Holy Spirit and Pentecost  Read Acts 2:2-8  This event is called Pentecost – is celebrated 50 days after Easter; referred as the “birthday of the church” – when the disciples were given the gift the Holy Spirit to live-out and preach the Gospel.  The Holy Spirit works through the Church to reveal Christ and His mission to the world.  Therefore, the work of the Spirit and the work of the Church are fused together. Without the Spirit, the Church would simply become just another social agency.

5. Titles and Symbols of the Holy Spirit  The titles and symbols can help us understand the work of the Spirit in the Church.  Paraclete (Παρακλετοσ) – means Advocate, Helper, Comforter – who “stands by our side”, to help us defend and live out or faith in Christ.  Other titles and descriptions found in Scriptures – Spirit of Christ, Promise of the Spirit, Spirit of Adoption.  Symbols associated with the Holy Spirit:  Water – HS’s action in Baptism  Fire – signifies the transforming energy of the HS (ex: tongues of fire).  Cloud and light – Symbolizes the glory God revealed and hidden.  Dove – In all four Gospels, the HS spirit is portrayed descending on Jesus at his Baptism in a form of a dove.  Anointing – symbolizes the power of the Spirit being poured out on the person.  Laying on of hands – people received the HS when the apostles laid hands on then.

6. The Gifts of the Holy Spirit  The Gifts of the Holy Spirit are seven gifts given by God to Christians, especially at Confirmation, to help them lead a good and holy life. See Luke 11:2-3.  The Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit:  Wisdom – we see God’s work in the events of our lives and the world.  Understanding – we recognize the right way to live as disciples of the Lord.  Right Judgment – we know what is right and wrong, and we are able to choose good.  Courage – someone who is willing to stand up for what is right even if it means rejection, abuse, harm, and death.  Knowledge – we understand what God has revealed to us in Christ and Scripture.  Reverence – a person who possesses a deep sense of respect for God and his Church.  Wonder and Awe – we are aware of the glory and majesty of God.