The gift of understanding

From the Novena to the Holy Spirit (Pentecost Novena)

Sacred Scripture: Luke 24:45

Meditation for Day 7

The seventh day asks for the gift of understanding — the grace to penetrate the truths of faith. After the Resurrection, Jesus 'opened their minds to understand the scriptures.' This gift continues that opening in every age.

Through understanding, the soul does not merely assent to the doctrines of the Church but begins to taste them.

Daily Novena Prayer (recited every day)

Veni Sancte Spiritus (Come, Holy Spirit)

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth. O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

This is the traditional collect for Pentecost, found in the Roman Missal and used as the daily closing of the novena.