June 5 2022

An article from our friend, Sister Isaac:

Pentecost Sunday –

Several years ago I received a very precious gift from a dear Wilmingtonian friend. It was a needlepoint hanging that said “O Lord for these I Pray” and then listed, quite artistically, the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit. I am going to take up a little space in this reflection to list them: Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Love, Joy, Self- Control, Faithfulness, Humility, Integrity, Endurance, Faith, Gratitude, and Gentleness. Each time I leave my room I ask our caring, loving God for these gifts of the Spirit. As I spent time with you recently I witnessed these qualities in the day to day living of the lives who came into my presence. During the liturgical worship in your gorgeous Basilica, the Congregation…Priests, Deacon, Seminarian, Eucharistic Ministers, Lectors, Musicians, Ushers and a church filled to capacity with worshipers, stirred my heart to gratitude for having the privilege of being a part of this community. We are aware that we are called to put into action the message of Jesus and the ministries that flow from St. Mary’s are alive and well. In the few days I spent with you the importance of the School, the Religious Education program with dozens of youth being confirmed in the “Spirit”, the visiting of the homebound and nursing homes, the ministry of the dedicated staff and the Social Gatherings in the Upper Room to recognize those who are committed to sharing their gifts, and the many men and women involved in Outreach to our brothers and sisters in need were front and Center. As I spent time in the Tileston building I recalled its humble beginnings – such incredible needs. However, over many years, dedicated people (parishioners and non-parishioners) came together to build the “City of God”, as one of my favorite hymns speaks of our Church’s mission. You tackled those needs. There is no doubt in my mind that you will continue to build God’s City. After all, Jesus, through the great gift of the Spirit, has promised to be with us always – even to the end of time. Happy Pentecost and thank you for all the Fruits of the Spirit that you have gifted me with.

Blessings, Sr. Isaac