June, 2025

Pentecost is a Joyful Time!

Fr. John Schmidt, C.Ss.R.

Dear Co-Redemptorist,

Pentecost is an important moment for Christians: Easter ends, Mission begins. I like the Gospel for the day in which the Holy Spirit prompts a group of fearful followers to become courageous witnesses of Christ. They preach and spread the Good News. I like also how the message is heard “in their own language,” carrying the gospel to everyone.

In some parishes, Pentecost is a time to confirm both adults and young people. Some are entering the Catholic Church and will be formally received prior to their Confirmation. Working alongside laity in the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, I know how people come to know Jesus. Their desire is strong and this helps my faith. When I feel my faith growing a little weak, I look to these candidates for strength.

We are blessed to have Frater Steven Urban, C.Ss.R., live and minster at St. Alphonsus, Minneapolis, during his pastoral year. He brings energy and love for the gospel and Christ’s people. He’s preparing for perpetual vows and his diaconate ordination later in August. Thank you for keeping him in your prayers along with all our seminarians.

Pentecost is also a joyful time. Redemptorists believe the Spirit has “command of every situation, puts the appropriate word on the lips of the preacher and opens hearts to receive it.” (CS10) It is good to remember that we are in the service of the Holy Spirit to preach the gospel. Together with our partners in mission we plant the seeds of the gospel and nurture the hope of Christians.

Thank you for all your generous gifts to the Co-Redemptorists. Please keep our seminarians in your prayers during their summer ministries.

God bless you,

Father John K. Schmidt, C.Ss.R.
Director, Co-Redemptorist Association

P.S.: Have you considered including the Redemptorists in your estate plans? Through your stewardship, you share in our many Redemptorists ministries. Will you join us on this final journey of Faith? Fr. Joseph Dorcey, C.Ss.R., Office of Financial Services, is available to discuss a special legacy gift that can continue the Redemptorists’ work beyond your lifetime. Send him an email, or call at 312-248-8894.