The readings today speak of unity, mission and the gift of peace. United as the Body of Christ, we have now completed our ninety day journey from Ash Wednesday, through the waters of Baptism at Easter, to our great mission of Pentecost. Our Church is born anew in the Holy Spirit and we are sent forth to build God’s kingdom of peace and wholeness. We are ready to set things in proper relationship with God, self, others and creation. This is the peace that Jesus gives. As a parish family, this year’s faith journey was radically altered by the reality of the pandemic and we are slowly and carefully moving back to some sense of order, but we know it will be some time yet before we are back to normal. Still, we are faithful and prayerful in our mission and our hope. We are united as the living Body of Christ. Traditionally, Pentecost has been referred to as the Birthday of the Church as the apostles left the upper room and never looked back. Their work has bridged the centuries and we are the current bearers of their mission. We speak the language of true faith, great hope and unconditional love which the world needs so very much today. Let this birthday be one of our greatest beginnings ever. Jesus calls us to “Go.” We have answered, “Yes!” Unleash the Holy Spirit that lives inside your heart. Be the miracle of Christ’s love each day. This is our new beginning.