At Pentecost, the apostles stood before a crowd made up of many nations, languages, and cultures. Scripture tells us that “each one was hearing them speak in his own language” (Acts 2:6). The Holy Spirit descended, and the barriers that once divided humanity were overcome by grace.
More than a thousand years later, a Capuchin friar stood before foreign crowds and preached in Latin. The people did not speak the language, but they understood him.
St. Lawrence of Brindisi (1559–1619), a Doctor of the Church and brilliant linguist, was known to speak at least eight languages fluently. According to witnesses, there were times when he was understood even by those who spoke none of them. His preaching was described as clear, convicting, and deeply spiritual, reaching the heart in ways that could not be explained by intellect alone.
“He preached in Latin, and people of other tongues understood him as if he spoke their native language.” — Capuchin records, early 1600s
The Church recognizes this as a manifestation of the Holy Spirit. It is an echo of Pentecost and a reminder that God’s work is not limited by human ability. The Holy Spirit speaks through those who are open to Him, even when they feel unqualified or uncertain.
We often believe we need the right words or the perfect background before we can share the Gospel. But the lives of the saints and the history of the Church tell a different story.
The same Spirit who filled the apostles, who gave boldness to the martyrs, and who spoke through St. Lawrence of Brindisi is still active in the Church today.
This Pentecost, we are invited to ask again.
Come, Holy Spirit. Veni, Sancte Spiritus.
