The June 4–5 weekend celebration of Pentecost reminded us that the Holy Spirit did not bring uniformity, but unity. Despite vast differences, those filled with the Spirit were unified by their common mission: to proclaim the mighty works of God.

In November 2020, in an effort to reach for that God-centered, Spirit-driven unity, St. Thomas began a one year Racial Justice Focus in response to the dire racial situations challenging our nation. A year later, a parish survey showed that almost three-fourths of the respondents agreed the focus was an appropriate action for St. Thomas, and nearly that same number wanted further action. 

Since January, a new team of parishioners has been deliberating and discerning on how to move forward. On Pentecost weekend, a team member spoke at each Mass, introducing the Inclusive Justice Initiative. To read the complete introduction statement, click here.

The word Inclusive means welcoming differences. Recognizing and respecting the differing views in our community, the new initiative plans to provide a communication and discussion forum to share thoughts. The strategy is to provide a variety of activities, resources and opportunities for learning and dialogue. We can each discern and take away what is meaningful to us. 

For the first activity, everyone is invited everyone to read the US bishops’ pastoral letter “Open Wide Our Hearts”. For more information, click here to read the Adult Faith Formation bulletin article. 

Much like the disciples in the readings today, we sometimes seem to be speaking different languages. As with the disciples, may the Holy Spirit offer us the gifts of understanding and unity. Amen.