The gifts of the Holy Spirit are given to believers to empower them for service within the body of Christ. These diverse gits each contribute uniquely to the growth of the church. According to tradition the gifts are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of God. This was the list of gifts which St Thomas Aquinas developed but there are other lists of gifts by St Paul in Ephesian 4 and Romans 12. In 1 Corinthians 12 a different list of the gifts of the Spirit is also given, as follows:
The Holy Spirit is given to each of us in a special way. That is for the good of all. To some people the Spirit gives a message of wisdom. To others the same Spirit gives a message of knowledge. To others the same Spirit gives faith. To others that one Spirit gives gifts of healing. To others he gives the power to do miracles. To others he gives the ability to prophesy. To others he gives the ability to tell the spirits apart. To others he gives the ability to speak in different kinds of languages they had not known before. And to still others he gives the ability to explain what was said in those languages. All the gifts are produced by one and the same Spirit.
To build up the church, these gifts must be exercised in love and humility, as emphasized in 1 Corinthians 13. They are not meant for personal glorification but for the service of others, creating a collaborative and nurturing environment. When each member uses their gift responsibly, the church thrives, reflecting the fullness of Christ’s body.
It is noteworthy that in both Romans and Ephesians St Paul includes not only spiritual gifts as coming from the Spirit but also particular roles of service and leadership: apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds and teachers. So the church is gifted with these servant leaders whom the spirit in turn gifts all the other gifts, so that the people / the church will have what they need for the growth of the church.
Ultimately, the gifts of the Holy Spirit are tools for equipping the saints, enhancing their capacity to serve, and strengthening the church’s mission to spread the gospel and manifest God’s kingdom on earth.
Prayer to the Holy Spirit for the Renewal of our Parish
Heavenly Father, thank-you for gathering us together at St. Martin de Porres Parish.
Send your Holy Spirit to guide us as we discern your will for the spiritual renewal and growth of our parish.
We ask for your strength, courage, and clear vision as we work to build a community of faith, hope, and love. Grant us a renewed vision of Your glory, a new experience of Your power, and a new passion for Your mission.
May our community serve as a place of hope and healing, a place of worship and spiritual growth; a place of nourishment and support. We pray that our parish will be welcoming of all who walk through our doors. Amen.
