This weekend brings two great celebrations within the Church as today we honor the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Apostles and tomorrow brings Pentecost, a day often referred to as the "Birthday" of the Church! In many ways it's appropriate that these two days should fall so close to each other. 

Our Lady, Queen of Apostles, is the patroness of our work here at the Catholic Apostolate Center and, indeed, has been recognized by the Church as a model for all faithful apostles to emulate. The Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity calls her, "The perfect example of this type of spiritual and apostolic life...who while leading the life common to all here on earth, one filled with family concerns and labors, was always intimately united with her Son and in an entirely unique way cooperated in the work of the Savior." Isn't that what we are all called to do as Apostles today? To live the life God has called us to each day, whether as a student, a business professional, a parent, or friend, all while seeking to bring Christ to each person we encounter in our work-a-day lives. 

The celebration of Pentecost reminds us that our task as apostles is not one we can accomplish without the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit. As we hear in this weekend's Gospel reading, Jesus tells his disciples that the Holy Spirit is sent to be our Advocate and "will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you" (Jn 14:26). Therefore an attentiveness to the voice of the Holy Spirit is the only way to hear God's personal message for each us. 

We pray that in these coming days, we may all seek to grow as apostles, using Our Lady as a model, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to follow our path ahead. 

Our Lady, Queen of Apostles, pray for us!

In God, the Infinite Love,

The Catholic Apostolate Center Team