The Holy Spirit is Alive in the Diocese of Duluth
As the liturgical year draws to a close and we step into the season of Advent, we find ourselves enveloped in a profound anticipation — the hopeful waiting for the celebration of the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ. This season is not merely an exercise in counting down the days to Christmas; it is a sacred opportunity to reflect on the vibrant presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives, parishes and communities within the Diocese of Duluth. There is no better way to introduce The Northern Cross magazine than during this Advent season, as we contemplate the dynamic communication of the Holy Spirit expressed in its pages.
As the liturgical year draws to a close and we step into the season of Advent, we find ourselves enveloped in a profound anticipation — the hopeful waiting for the celebration of the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ. This season is not merely an exercise in counting down the days to Christmas; it is a sacred opportunity to reflect on the vibrant presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives, parishes and communities within the Diocese of Duluth. There is no better way to introduce The Northern Cross magazine than during this Advent season, as we contemplate the dynamic communication of the Holy Spirit expressed in its pages.
Advent invites us to consider the extraordinary moment when the Holy Spirit descended upon Mary, filling her with grace and preparing her to bear the Savior of the world. The Annunciation, when the angel Gabriel proclaimed to Mary that she would conceive by the Holy Spirit, showcases a divine interplay of faith and obedience. Mary’s humble acceptance of this monumental calling serves as a timeless example for us all. In her “yes,” she opened the door
to an abundance of grace that would not only transform her life but also the course of history.
In the Diocese of Duluth, we are witnessing a similar stirring of the Spirit. There are stories surfacing of individuals and groups experiencing profound encounters with the Holy Spirit — moments of healing, reconciliation and renewed faith that echo the transformative power of that first Advent. From prayer and Bible groups gathering in homes to youth ministries igniting a passion for service, it is evident that the Holy Spirit is moving through our diocese in remarkable ways. These encounters remind us that the Spirit is not a distant past event but a current reality, active and alive among us.
As we engage in this season of waiting, we are called to be witnesses to the Holy Spirit’s work. Our testimonies can inspire others, just as Mary’s witness inspired generations.
Each of us carries the breath of the Holy Spirit within us, a flame that can be shared with those around us.
In a world often filled with uncertainty and despair, our witness can be a beacon of healing, hope and joy. Whether through acts of kindness, sharing our faith stories or simply being present to one another, we can reflect the love that Mary embraced when she accepted her divine mission in the Holy Spirit.
Moreover, Advent is a reminder that this season is for everyone. Just as Mary was chosen to bear Christ, we are all invited to share in the mission of bringing forth the kingdom of God. The Holy Spirit empowers us to reach out to those in need, to stand alongside the marginalized, and to proclaim the Good News. Each act of love, each word of encouragement, can ignite a spark of faith in others, allowing them to experience the joy of the Holy Spirit firsthand.
In this Advent season, let us open our hearts to the abundant coming of the Holy Spirit. May we take inspiration from Mary’s example, allowing our “yes” to resonate through our communities. As we prepare to celebrate the miraculous birth of Jesus, let us also celebrate the Spirit’s movement among us, giving witness to the healing, hope and joy that flows from the spirit-filled womb of Mary to the world.
With the coming of the Christmas Christ, I wish you and your loved ones a Spirited Merry and Holy Christmas!