Some Sisters of the Word Incarnate (SVI) have joined the St. Anthony Catholic Church community at Ayakomaso in the Sunyani Diocese to mark this year’s Mass of the Solemnity of Pentecost.
This Sisters were welcomed by the Community as they worship with them.
The Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Boniface Ameyaw, Rector of the Queen of Peace Grotto, Nsoatre, and Parish Priest of St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Nsoatre, both in the Sunyani Diocese.
In his homily, Fr. Ameyaw exhorted the congregation to Revere the gifts of the Holy Spirit, emphasising that “our hearts symbolize the Upper Room where the Holy Spirit descended.”
He expounded on the symbolism of the manifestations of the Holy Spirit:
Wind representing God’s breath, signifying life and empowerment and
Fire, Symbolizing the Holy Spirit’s manifestation, empowering the disciples for ministry.
He further elaborated that the Upper Room, where the disciples were gathered, symbolizes the Church and, more profoundly, our individual hearts.
He stressed that as Christians, “we are called to prepare our hearts for the manifestation of the Holy Spirit.”
He noted that on Pentecost, the disciples received zeal, strength, and grace to undertake God’s work.
“A notable example cited was Peter, who, once timid, was empowered to preach to thousands.
Fr. Ameyaw reminded the faithful that as followers of Christ, “we are similarly called to do God’s will, preach the Gospel, and practice forgiveness.”
Father Ameyaw outlined key teachings derived from the Holy Spirit’s actions at Pentecost that the Holy Spirit encourages an appreciation and celebration of diversity within the body of Christ.
This unity is not about uniformity but rather a harmonious blend of various gifts, cultures, and perspectives, rooted in love, respect, and shared faith.
“The Holy Spirit bestows various spiritual gifts, including wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, prophecy, and discernment,” the Rector said.
These gifts, he noted were intended to be nurtured and utilised for the common good, building up the Church and serving others.
Again, he said, the Holy Spirit calls on believers to be missionaries, spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ and sharing their faith.
This, he stated, involves witnessing to God’s love, serving those in need, and proclaiming the message of salvation.
According to Fr. Ameyaw, the Holy Spirit guides individuals to promote peace in their personal lives, relationships, and communities.
This, he said, encompasses fostering inner peace, resolving conflicts, and advocating for justice and reconciliation globally.
Fr Ameyaw emphasised that the Holy Spirit’s teachings underscore the vital importance of unity, spiritual growth, mission, and peace.
He, therefore, urged the congregation to embrace these teachings, thereby living out their faith more fully and contributing to the creation of a more loving and harmonious world.
He concluded by calling for a renewal of commitment to God’s work and an openness to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
By Sr. Rebecca Asante, SVI (Sister Communicator)
