St. John the Baptist is prominent in each of the four Gospels. He is associated with the beginning of the ministry of Jesus and is considered to be the “forerunner” to Jesus the Messiah. He baptized those who repented their sins, and he preached the coming of one after him who is greater than he and would baptize not with water but with the Spirit.

On this sacred day of Pentecost, we gather before You, humbled by Your divine presence and eager to receive Your abundant blessings. As we celebrate the wondrous descent of Your power upon the disciples, we open our hearts and minds to Your guiding light. Holy Spirit, fill us with Your wisdom and understanding. Grant us the clarity to discern Your will and the courage to follow Your path. Help us to shed our doubts and fears, and let Your flame ignite our souls with faith and fervor. …