What difficulties have you overcome because of your belief in the Holy Spirit?
In his book Worshiping Well (The Liturgical Press, 1997), Fr. Larry Mick tells the story of a bishop who took time each day to sit in what he referred to as his “Holy Spirit chair.” As the bishop explained this practice to Confirmation candidates, he emphasized the importance of just sitting down for a few minutes each day to be still and to see what thoughts, inspirations, and insights might surface. This, the bishop said, was the voice of the Spirit speaking to us.
The story so caught my imagination and heart that I’ve often presented it as a spiritual practice at various retreats and parish missions. To sit in a few moments of silence with others is a powerful thing, and to share the fruits of that silence is equally as powerful.
We should not be surprised by what we hear in the silence. After all, four of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit are wisdom, understanding, counsel (right judgment), and knowledge. But in order to access these Gifts during times of difficulty, in challenging times such as the present, we must take time to sit and listen to that voice within.
As the Easter season continues and as summer nears, designate your own “Holy Spirit chair.” This time of year, mine is a balcony chair placed near planters full of herbs and flowers, with a delightful view of birds, squirrels, and butterflies at play.
Each day, commit to just a few moments of sitting still and in quiet. Begin by praying, “Come, Holy Spirit.” Prepare to be amazed by the insight and inspiration the Holy Spirit speaks to your heart.
Mary Sellars Malloy has over forty years’ experience as a Catholic educator and lay minister. She is a frequent workshop presenter on the topics of prayer, liturgy, spirituality, the Sacraments, and the RCIA. In addition, Mary leads retreats and parish missions throughout the country. Her goal is to encourage Catholics of all ages to appreciate and to live their Catholic faith.