Still seeking and finding the Holy Spirit along my faith journey

By Charla Spulluto Misse
NOLA Catholic Parenting

Last summer, I was inspired to connect more deeply with the Holy Spirit, to recognize his presence throughout my day and to be more receptive to his holy inspirations. I had the idea that I would seek out symbols of the Holy Spirit and, in doing this, would begin a habit of finding him.

Praise God, I invited my family to do this with me – and found much more than I expected.

The Holy Spirit is commonly symbolized by a dove, by a flame, by wind and by water. You could spend an afternoon on each of these symbols, first encountering then appreciating or praising.

Some ideas include: Learn to identify a dove by sight and by sound. To feel the wind, take a nature walk, fly a kite or make a pinwheel for your yard. Light a candle at dinner and watch the flame. To see water, go to the beach or the lakefront, walk in the rain or bring a container to church to gather holy water for your home.

You might also explore a church or adoration chapel. Look for a dove, sometimes on the ceiling above the altar or in another artwork. Look for a flame; if the sanctuary lamp is lit, remind your family that Jesus is present. Point out the baptismal font where each of us is born into the faith.

Once you have recognized the Holy Spirit’s presence by these symbols, spend time loving him. Maybe writing a prayer or poem, drawing a picture, spending time in meditation, even making a meal or singing a song, whatever resonates with your family and expresses glory and praise.

I recently shared these ideas with the Cub Scouts. I encouraged them to pray daily, “Come, Holy Spirit, come,” and to start making notes of the symbols they encounter each day for 30 days.

As I hoped, last summer’s experiences were the beginning of many inspirational moments. Indeed, since we started, my son has more than once surprised me by announcing the Holy Spirit’s presence when I was unaware. Other times, when I’ve been alone, it’s as if a dear friend is tapping me on the shoulder, and I find I was actually NOT alone.

This habit has truly changed my life. It alters my days often when I least expect it.

Importantly, by doing this together, we were strengthened by the opportunities to witness to each other, to proclaim his presence and glorify him. United, we reminded each other to invite the Holy Spirit into our family.   

I pray that you and your families find comfort, guidance and strength in the power of the Holy Spirit everywhere you look.

A native of New Orleans who graduated from Immaculata High School, Charla Misse has a bachelor of science in chemical engineering from Carnegie Mellon University and an MBA from The College of William and Mary, Charla feels blessed to worship, work and play in her hometown. Things that make Charla happiest are laughing with her husband and their son, baking for her loved ones, exercising in the outdoors, visiting the adoration chapel and picking her son up from school.