The Holy Spirit came down on the Apostles to confirm their faith, to sanctify them, and to enable them to found the Church.
The Apostles had been chosen and instructed by Christ, but they still needed the special help of the Holy Spirit to carry out their mission. At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit strengthened their faith, purified and sanctified them, and gave them the grace necessary to preach the Gospel boldly to all nations. Through the Spirit's guidance, the Apostles were able to teach the truth faithfully, govern the Church, and administer the sacraments. The Holy Spirit also united believers into one Body, the Church, making Pentecost the beginning of the Church's worldwide mission. This mission continues today through the successors of the Apostles and the work of the Holy Spirit in every generation. The Church depends upon the Holy Spirit for her life, unity, holiness, and fidelity to the teachings of Christ.
The mission of Christ and the Holy Spirit is brought to completion in the Church. The Holy Spirit prepares men and goes out to them with his grace so as to draw them to Christ. Through the gift of the Spirit, the Church receives the power to proclaim and spread the Gospel.
Acts 1:8
But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth.
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