[Alamo-Girl]

Amen! ONLY God searches hearts and knows the will of God - all of it. How can anyone possibly imagine going to a created being, even one who may be in heaven with God, for intercession when we have THE Holy Spirit to do that??? Because He is eternal, omniscient, omnipresent and omnipotent, NO ONE can outdo Him.

Amen!

Sadly, the evidence suggests that many are unaware of the ministry of the Holy Spirit.

If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? - Luke 11:13

Quench not the Spirit. - I Th 9:15

As you said, these discussions are to show a more excellent way - not to mock or deride.

May God bless you both this Christmas!

[nicmarlo]

Sadly, the evidence suggests that many are unaware of the ministry of the Holy Spirit.

You're right. It's sadly the case with most churches I've attended (denominational and non-denominational). The work of the Holy Spirit is hardly ever touched upon.

He is part of the God-head and is given such little respect, acknowledgement, or emphasis (I don't mean intentional disrespect, I mean just ignoring Him and His work in us, which is disrespectful).

[caww]

....”evidence suggests that many are unaware of the ministry of the Holy Spirit.”.....

I agree but I do think the Charismatic and Pentecostal Movements have often been so theatrical and emotional regarding the Holy Spirit, (the other extreme), that few want to appear in any way as if affilitated with that behavior and the outbursts which so often appear to be more offensive then inviting.

So those who do seek to understand the Spirits work have difficulty fining the balance ....not just for Catholics but for all who are Christians.