Chaplain's Corner

Dear Beloved Families,

We have now moved from the Great Feast of Pascha and prepare to celebrate the beautiful Feast of Pentecost. We are invited to open our hearts to the boundless love and grace of the Holy Spirit, who fills our lives and our homes with peace, wisdom, and joy. 

Fifty days after Pascha, we remember the powerful moment when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles and the Virgin Mary, empowering them to spread the message of Christ. This day marks the birth of the Church, and it is a reminder of how the Holy Spirit continues to work in the life of the Church, and in our families, as well.

On this special feast, we are reminded that the Holy Spirit is not just a distant or symbolic presence. He is here, with us, every moment of our lives, especially in our homes. Our families are called to be a reflection of God’s love, and the Holy Spirit is the one who helps us live out this calling.

Just as the apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit and united in love, so too are our families called to live in unity. The Holy Spirit strengthens the bonds between husband and wife, parent and child, helping us grow in love and understanding. In moments of difficulty or disagreement, the Spirit gently reminds us to choose love, patience, and forgiveness, keeping us united in Christ.

The Holy Spirit is our Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, guiding us every step of the way. He helps us make wise choices, not just in big decisions but in everyday moments. When we invite the Holy Spirit into our family life, He brings peace and wisdom, helping us as parents to raise our children with love and faith. He helps children to grow in respect, kindness, and gratitude. Together, we can pray, asking the Spirit to lead us in our homes, to be patient with one another, and to be kind in our words and actions.

The Holy Spirit helps us cultivate the beautiful fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control. These virtues, given to us by the Spirit, make our homes places of peace and warmth. When we practice these virtues, we create an environment where everyone feels loved, safe, and supported. This is the kind of home that reflects Christ’s love to the world, a home where the Holy Spirit is alive and working in each heart.

Just as the Holy Spirit gave the apostles the courage to share the gospel, He empowers our families to serve others. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, helping a neighbor, or showing love to those in need, we are called to be witnesses of Christ’s love. The Holy Spirit fills us with the strength and compassion to make a difference in the lives of others, and in doing so, we grow closer as a family, united in God’s mission for the world.

On this Pentecost, as we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit, I invite you to attend the Liturgy and Kneeling Service on Sunday June 8 (service book attached)  https://dcs.goarch.org/goa/dcs/p/s/2025/06/08/ve/en/se.m06.d09.ve.pdf) 

to open your hearts to His loving presence in your home. The Holy Spirit is with you, guiding, strengthening, and filling your family with grace. Let this feast be a reminder that, through the Holy Spirit, we are all united in love, wisdom, and joy. May your home be a place where the Holy Spirit is alive, where love and peace reign, and where Christ’s light shines brightly for all to see.

With love and prayers,

Rev Fr Stavros Kakavas 

Parish Priest and School Chaplain