Let your light shine before men!

Since the very beginning on Pentecost day, the Holy Spirit has been acting in the life of the Church. Our presence here today it’s clear example of how the Church is directed and guided by the Holy Spirit. For almost 300 years, the seed of the Catholic Faith has been growing in this land and today and the Holy Spirit continues the work of salvation and sanctification in the Archdiocese of San Antonio.

The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, just reminded us of this beautiful reality during his visit to the United States. Speaking to the Bishops of the United States, he said, “Today the Catholic community you serve is one of the largest in the world, and one of the most influential. How important it is, then, to let your light shine before your fellow citizens and before the world, ‘that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven’” (Mt 5:16).

We all are aware of the vitality of the Church in our country and our archdiocese: Parishes, Religious Communities, Ecclesial movements and especially the spiritual and material works of mercy of so many lay faithful in the Archdiocese.

Yes, the Holy Spirit is alive and working in our midst, but we have to remember that in the same way that we see the Holy Spirit acting in the life of the Church, He is acting in our own life. As St. Peter writes in his epistle, “Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope…”

Archbishop José H. Gomez, S.T.D.