During his public catechesis, Pope Francis reflected on two characteristics of the Holy Spirit and recalled how in the Bible he is represented as “breath, wind, breeze.” He also noted the fruit of following the Holy Spirit is freedom.
SUMMARY OF THE POPE'S CATECHESIS IN ENGLISH:
Dear brothers and sisters,
In our ongoing catechesis on the Spirit and the Bride, we now centre our attention on the Biblical name of Holy Spirit, which in Hebrew is Ruach, meaning breath, wind, or spirit. This name highlights the Spirit’s profound power and freedom. Jesus likens the Spirit to the wind that blows where it wills, thus emphasizing the freedom of the Holy Spirit, who not only creates and inspires but always remains free, bestowing his gifts “as he wills” (1 Cor 12:11).
Saint Paul affirms this, stating: “Now the Lord is Spirit and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Cor 3:17). This freedom is given to us as a gift so that we can do God’s will, rather than merely following our personal desires. Where do we attain this freedom of the Spirit, so contrary to the spirit of selfishness? The answer is in the words that Jesus spoke to his followers: “If the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed” (Jn 8:36). Let us ask Jesus, through his Holy Spirit, to make us truly free. Free to serve with love and joy
I extend a warm welcome to the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors taking part in today’s Audience, especially the groups from England, Scotland, the Netherlands, Cameroon, Australia, Malaysia, Canada and the United States of America. Upon all of you, and upon your families, I invoke the joy and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ. God bless you!