These days between the Ascension and Pentecost are a good reminder to us of something we should be conscious of throughout the year: the importance of frequent prayer to the Holy Spirit.

Some people say that the gathering of early disciples in the upper room between the Ascension and Pentecost was “the first novena;” however, I would count that as ten days (Thursday to the second Sunday).

Nonetheless, this novena in preparation for the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost is one I stand in need of. It is traditionally prayed in my community, and we’re three days into it.

I started the novena with one or two intentions in mind, for which I wanted to invoke the special help of the Holy Spirit. But now, not even midway through, there’s another intention that has come to the fore for me.

What this reminds me is that there are very many issues in which we would do well to invoke aid from the One who can give us light and refreshment…the One who is called “the Soul’s most welcome guest” with good reason.