May 10th 2026
SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
I will give you another Advocate
In his inaugural address in 1961 President
John F Kennedy announced to his fellow
citizens that the torch had been passed
to a new generation. As Jesus prepared
to return to the home of the Father He
left the same message with His disciples.
It would be their task to continue His
work and carry His Word to the ends of
the earth. He reassures them, however,
that He is not abandoning them. He will
send the Spirit whom He describes as
the Paraclete. The word Paraclete means
advocate or helper, one who stands beside
you in time of difficulty, providing a
comforting, supportive and encouraging
presence. What Jesus is really saying to the
disciples in this, His final address is: ‘I am
sending you on a difficult and dangerous
mission but you will not be alone. I will
send you someone who will guide you as
to what to do and enable you to do it.’
Jesus continues to walk with and guide His
Church through the working of the Holy
Spirit. The Spirit will always point people
to finish the work of Jesus but He does
not gate-crash any person’s heart. He waits
to be welcomed-in and there is only one
person who can open the door. If we do
open ourselves to His promptings we can,
through His power renew the face of the
earth. The torch is passed!