With the Solemnity of Pentecost the Easter Season comes to an end. The Pentecost windows are the lower two panes of the Holy Spirit rose window. In the Acts of the Apostles we read that after Jesus ascended into heaven, the Apostles and Mary returned to the upper room where they had been staying and devoted themselves to prayer in preparation for the coming of the Advocate whom Jesus had promised to send. They also chose Matthias as a successor to Judas, who had betrayed Jesus. (Acts 1:13 – 26)
When the Jewish feast of Pentecost arrived, the Holy Spirit came upon them with the sound of a rushing wind and in tongues of fire that rested upon each of them. (Acts 2: 1-4) In the window we see the twelve Apostles and Mary with tongues of fire over their heads. Most of the Apostles have their hands folded in prayer, but the two in the upper corners of the panes have arms raised above their heads as if to embrace this new gift which they have received, and perhaps
to also symbolize the bold way in which they will witness to the Risen Christ and preach the Gospel message throughout the world. (Lk 24: 46 – 49). All of the Apostles have their eyes wide open with intense expressions on their faces. The gift of the Holy Spirit which they have received will give them clarity as they preach; and they will walk open-eyed into persecution and suffering. They will all die a martyr’s death except John; and he, too, will suffer persecution. But Mary’s countenance is a striking contrast; her eyes are closed and her face is serene. Her role will be different. She will support the growing Church in prayer. We believe that upon her death, Mary’s body was “assumed” into heaven where she reigns with her Son, and her role in the Church is the same today. On June 9 we honor Mary as Mother of the Church; and as our mother, Mary intercedes on our behalf.
Just as the Apostles received the gift of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, we receive the Spirit at our Baptism and again when we receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. We can trust that the Holy Spirit is always with us, and we can always pray for the Spirit’s gifts and help as we work to spread the Love of Jesus to all we meet. May we also remember to ask Mary to intercede for us, especially as we navigate our way through the trials, difficulties, and suffering we encounter in our day to day lives. Her motherly love is always with us.