Jan Neal

The inspiration for this work is the Novena to the Holy Spirit for the Seven Gifts, which is prayed over nine days from Ascension to Pentecost. At Baptism our prayer is for the Holy Spirit to sanctify Baptismal water, and through that spiritual power we are sealed forever to God. This image symbolizes the spirit's essential presence in Baptism and the spiritual gifts for which we pray year round and particularly as we prepare for Pentecost – the spirit of wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and holy fear. The Novena ends with one of the most beautiful phrases ever written:

"Come, O Spirit of Wisdom, and reveal to my soul the mysteries of heavenly things, their exceeding greatness, power and beauty. Teach me to love them above and beyond all the passing joys and satisfactions of earth. Help me to attain them and possess them forever. Amen."