In the story of the Tower of Babel, the diversity of languages prevented people from understanding one another. At Pentecost, the diversity of languages presented no obstacle to understanding. at Babel, diversity prevented unity of hearts and minds. At Pentecost, diversity did not hinder unity of hearts and minds.
Consider the root meaning of the word catholic. It comes from a Greek word referring to something that has a universal application. For example, the law of gravity would be a catholic principle - it is universal, it applies to all situations.
In Christianity, catholic means that the Gospels' teachings and values are universal. They can enrich every facet of human life - for young and old, for every culture, for every unique individual. Everyone doesn't have to be the same in order to be Christian.
The Word of God is meant to be like yeast, like salt, like light - going forth and enriching, affecting all human life. Unity is not achieved by huddling together. It is achieved by letting the Spirit of God blow where it will, letting it shine forth throughout the earth, throughout various cultures and age groups.
The Feast of Pentecost is a feast of catholicity. It celebrated the capacity of the Spirit to reach out to everything, and to unite hearts and minds that come from many places.
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the fruits of the Holy Spirit are:
- Charity
- Chastity
- Faithfulness
- Generosity
- Gentleness
- Goodness
- Joy
- Kindness
- Modesty
- Patience
- Peace
- Self-Control
- Little White Book, Diocese of Saginaw