The Holy Spirit

by Fr. Michael D. Accinni Reinhardt, MA, Mdiv, MS  |  05/10/2026  |  Pastoral Corner

Dear Parish Family,

It is with renewed spirit and heart that I return to the parish, vibrant and ready to continue in the mission work of the Church. Serving on assignment for the Maritime Diocese is rewarding because a priest never hangs his priestly hat, but finds ways to renew it. Witnessing the greater church in the world at work is always an invigorating inspiration for me. I am most grateful to the parishioners who joined me on this journey, assisting me in the ministry at sea and making it fruitful as we served a few hundred Catholics at sea, who comprised passengers and crew.

Our readings today, especially the gospel from John, speak volumes as to where our hearts should be, as we who are the willing are awakened to the call to discipleship. She constantly reminds us in John’s gospel that in believing we receive, and that to be counted amongst the friends of Jesus we MUST keep his commandments. What are his commandments? To keep in line with the Ten Commandments, and to love one another, to forgive, and to live a life of compassion. Our Holy Father Pope Leo speaks of this at the heart, reminding us that we are not politically motivated, erotically motivated, but Gospel motivated that is what makes us friends of Jesus.

What motivates you to be willing enough? What is the motivation behind your desire to be a disciple?

Blessings,

Fr Michael