This coming weekend is one for celebration as we look forward to the great feast of Pentecost, 50 days after the Resurrection of Christ; when the Holy Spirit, which Jesus promised, is poured out on the Apostles and the gathered crowd. As the Spirit rests upon them, so they begin speaking in tongues that are not their own, but they are given the language of others, for the purpose of reaching new communities with the Good News of God’s Love as it spreads out beyond the Apostles, to the Gentiles, and across the globe.

On Sunday, we rejoice in the way God’s Good News continues to reach new people and communities, as we confirm a number of people who are ready to profess and own the promises made at their baptism, and to open themselves to a fresh outpouring of God’s Holy Spirit in their lives. As they do so, they step into their baptismal vocation to share this love of God with others through the way they live, build relationships, and witness to the God who brings hope and joy and new life to all.

It seems fitting then that on the same weekend, St Mary’s will also hold our annual service of ‘Pride Prayers’ (12.30pm - Saturday 7th June) as a witness to the love God has for all people, without exception. The Spirit has a habit, throughout Scripture, of driving the faithful out into spaces and places, and to people, which they may be unfamiliar with. And our faith can, at times, demand that we too learn to speak new languages and open ourselves to new experiences as we learn to communicate the hope, joy and new life that comes from knowing we are each loved beyond measure. 

So however you celebrate this weekend; at Pride, on Pilgrimage, by confirming your faith at Pentecost, or a wonderful collection of all-three, you are invited to share in a new adventure of faith. It may take you to unexpected places, and you will certainly meet new people, but you can trust that, as you travel, the Holy Spirit will be your guide and will give you words of hope to share with those who you encounter along the way.