Faithful invited to participate in online Pentecost Retreat

PISCATAWAY – In the midst of a global pandemic, the Holy Spirit is moving in the Diocese of Metuchen.

Inspired by the impacts and fruits of last year’s all-night Pentecost Vigil, which was part of the Year of Awakening in preparation for the Dec. 12, 2019 diocesan consecration to Jesus through Mary, under her title of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the diocese will offer “A Church of Mission and Purpose: Pentecost Retreat Day,” beginning May 29 at 7 p.m. and concluding May 30 at 5 p.m. with a Vigil Mass of Pentecost celebrated by Bishop James F. Checchio.

Through witness talks, presentations, faith-sharing and music, the diocese’s first-ever virtual Pentecost Retreat aims to inspire participants, through the grace of the Holy Spirit, to be refreshed, to pray with expectant faith, and to know that God will do great things in their midst.

Participants are encouraged to come with an open heart, ready to be transformed by the Holy Spirit, who gives personal knowledge of the heart of God and provides meaning, direction and purpose.

Clergy and religious are expected to share their wisdom and faith in a series of presentations throughout the retreat. Speakers will give witness to their own experiences in living the faith. Participants will also have an opportunity to connect with one another in breakout sessions.

Like the Apostles locked in the Upper Room, the faithful of the diocese — still in their homes as a result of the coronavirus pandemic — are invited to remember and relive the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and the other disciples gathered in prayer with the Virgin Mary in the Upper Room during the virtual Pentecost Retreat.

Celebrated 50 days after the Resurrection of Jesus and officially ending the Easter season, Pentecost marks the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and the Virgin Mary in the form of tongues of fire. It is observed this year on May 31.

The Paschal mystery of the Passion, the Death, the Resurrection, and the Ascension of Jesus culminates in the sending of the Holy Spirit by the Father at the request of His Son on Jesus' disciples. Also known as the birthday of the Church, Pentecost commemorates the official inauguration of the Christian Church by the apostolic preaching of St. Peter, which resulted in the conversion of 3,000 Jews to the Christian Faith.

Participants who register for the Pentecost Retreat will have the opportunity to listen to live presentations, witness talks and take part in small breakout sessions. To see the full schedule and to register, visit: www.LightingHeartsOnFire.org.

There is no cost to attend. No registration is required to participate in the livestreamed Vigil Mass.