The Easter season is a time of hope for Christians, a period that provides an anchor to the soul amid life's storms. This is the sentiment expressed by Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark, in his recent address to his fellow believers.

Drawing from the Letter to the Hebrews, Tobin emphasizes that despite daily challenges and hardships, Christians endure with confidence and joy because of their faith in the Risen Christ. He underscores the need for God's grace and the Holy Spirit's sevenfold gifts—wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord—to navigate life's journey.

Tobin refers to the first disciples of Jesus who faced persecution and death as they spread His teachings across the world. Despite suffering and disappointment, these disciples served joyfully because they were empowered by the Holy Spirit's gifts and inflamed with God's love.

In every generation, according to Tobin, the Church receives gifts or "charisms" from the Holy Spirit—freely given favors that reflect Christian life's richness and diversity. These charisms help Christians experience life in Christ in various ways under different circumstances.

"The Church has always benefitted from the gift of charisms," says a 2023 Synod Synthesis Report cited by Tobin. The report also highlights how these gifts rejuvenate and renew the Church with joy and gratitude.

Tobin expresses gratitude for being part of The Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (Redemptorists), a community dedicated to caring for vulnerable individuals worldwide. He describes how their charism manifests through their founder Alphonsus Liguori's teachings and how Redemptorist priests have adapted to serve people over nearly three centuries.

Tobin also acknowledges various Religious Institutes comprising men and women living different styles of consecrated life following their founders' examples. He quotes Sr. Annie Klapheke, a contemporary Sister of Charity, who compares the Church to a mosaic or quilt that requires diverse pieces to create a beautiful image.

Tobin ends his address with a prayer for the Holy Spirit to renew the world and provide endless joy. He encourages everyone to step out of their comfort zones and become missionary disciples, emphasizing that the Holy Spirit provides all necessary gifts for this mission.

The Archbishop also shares excerpts from Pope Francis's homily on Pentecost 2023, where the Pope speaks about the Holy Spirit's role in creating harmony in the world, Church, and individual hearts.

In conclusion, Tobin invites everyone to join him in Pope Francis's Pentecost prayer, entrusting the world and Church to the Holy Spirit and asking for renewal and unity.