A Reflection for the Sixth Sunday of Easter, 2026
Written by Fr. Barry Bercier, A.A.
Assumptionist Missionary Priest serving in Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada
As the Church prepares for the Feast of the Ascension and Pentecost, Fr. Barry Bercier reflects on Jesus’ promise to His disciples — the gift of the Holy Spirit, the “Spirit of truth” who continues to guide and strengthen believers today.
The Promise Jesus Made
Jesus prepared His disciples for the moment when His physical presence among them would end. Though they would no longer walk beside Him in the same way, He reassured them that they would not be abandoned.
“I will not leave you orphaned.”
“I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever.”
Understanding the Spirit
Fr. Barry reminds us that the idea of Spirit appears from the very beginning of Scripture. The Hebrew word ruah means wind, breath, and spirit — the very breath of life God gives to humanity. The Holy Spirit is not merely an idea, but the life and truth of God dwelling within us, guiding each person toward their true identity and mission.
The Spirit of Truth
The world often pulls people away from truth through fear, illusion, and selfishness. But the Spirit of God brings peace, courage, and clarity. After His Resurrection, Jesus breathed upon His disciples and said:
“Peace be with you.
Receive the Holy Spirit.
As the Father has sent me, so I send you.”
Living the Spirit Today
Pentecost transformed fearful disciples into courageous witnesses. Fr. Barry reflects that this same Spirit continues to work within us today. In a world marked by confusion and division, Christians are called to become vessels of truth, hope, and life for others.
“I live, and you also will live.”
