Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Today's readings speak to us in different ways of a fundamental mystery of the Christian life: the Most Holy Trinity. God is one in three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

It seems appropriate to reflect upon this mystery right after the Easter season and Pentecost, as Jesus speaks many important truths about who God is in his final days with his disciples. In today's Gospel he tells them at the Last Supper: "I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now." In this same moment, he also says things such as: "I came from the Father, and am going back to Him," "It is better for you if I go, because I will send the Advocate to you."

Truly he told the disciples much about the Father while he was with them, and as his time with them grows short, he tells them several times about the Spirit that he will send to them. This Spirit of truth will guide them to the truth, reminding them of all that Jesus told them, and helping them to carry out his mission.

In speaking of the Father and the Spirit, Jesus also reveals his own identity. He and the Father are one. And if we keep his word, he and the Father will come to us and make their dwelling with us.

Often we can feel like the disciples who struggle to understand this great mystery of the Trinity, of who God is and what that means for our lives. Two main takeaways I think we can meditate on this special day: 1) God is communion, and 2) He invites us to participate in this communion.

1. God is communion: God is fundamentally relational. The Father, the Son, and the Spirit are in a constant, active relationship of love in which, while each one keeps distinct identity and personhood, they are still truly united as one God.

2. God invites us to participate in his communion of love. He desires a relationship with us, and he respects our freedom. If we allow ourselves to be drawn into this relationship, it will fulfill us and make us more fully ourselves.

On this special Solemnity, let us place ourselves before God and give him thanks for revealing the mystery of his very self to us, and for inviting us to participate in the divine love of the Most Holy Trinity.

God bless you all,

Patrick Travers

Newman Director