Welcome to Day 3 of the Pentecost Novena.
Today's reflection on the gift of Courage and the fruit of Peace is from Emerson Escano, a member of the Proclaim community.
My name is Emerson Escano, and I am a parishioner from Saint Joseph’s Parish in Port Moody. I am an active leader in our parish, raising three kids, and my full-time career is helping people with their finances to attain their dream of being a homeowner.
Today, I share with you my personal story on the gift of the Holy Spirit which is “Fortitude” or what we refer to as “Courage”.
Courage is often defined as not the absence of fear but making the right choice despite being afraid.
I have been a Catholic all my life, and a challenge I’ve been trying to overcome is to confidently pray with others. I have encountered so many Catholics and other religious denominations who pray naturally together with no fear or hesitation.
Recently, as a leader for Alpha at my parish, the Holy Spirit made an impact on me personally and I received the gift of Courage.
During our Alpha journey, we were about to pray as a group and I was tasked to lead a prayer. Here I am, asking myself: “How do I start? What should I say? What if I don’t choose the right words? What would others think of me if I don’t execute the right prayer?”
The Gift of Courage came that day when it was time to lead a prayer. I closed my eyes, took 30 seconds to embrace the silence, and lead the prayer from my heart. I have not looked back since.
With each prayer, I am fully confident the Holy Spirit is there to guide and give me courage to pray without hesitation.
As Pope Francis once shared in a message with his audience; With the gift of fortitude, the Holy Spirit frees the soil of our heart from uncertainty and all the fears that stop it, so that the Word of God can be put into practice, in an automatic and joyful way.
I pray the Holy Spirit will give you the gift of Courage and that you may find Peace in your spiritual journey.