When Jesus told His disciples that He would soon leave them, He also made a promise: “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever” (John 14:16). The word Paraclete comes from the Greek paraklētos, meaning “one who is called alongside.” It’s a word filled with tenderness and strength — describing someone who stands beside us, speaks for us, and helps us in our weakness.
Many people think of the Holy Spirit only as a mysterious power, but in calling Him the Paraclete, Jesus shows us something deeply personal. The Spirit is not an “it,” but a “He” — a divine Person who comforts, counsels, and defends us. He speaks in our hearts when we are afraid, reminding us of Jesus’ words and giving us courage to keep believing when life feels uncertain.
In Scripture, the Spirit is also our Advocate — one who intercedes for us before God. Saint Paul says, “The Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words” (Romans 8:26). When we don’t know how to pray or what to say, the Spirit prays within us, turning our silence and pain into prayer. Like a good defender, He stands by us in the courtroom of our conscience, reminding us that in Christ, we are not condemned but loved.
The Spirit is also our Comforter. He brings peace when hearts are troubled, strength when hope grows dim, and the quiet assurance that Jesus is still near. Through the Paraclete, the Risen Christ continues to walk beside His Church — teaching, guiding, and sustaining us. Every time we feel inspired to do good, consoled in prayer, or led toward truth, that is the gentle presence of the Advocate at work.
The Holy Spirit is the love of God dwelling within us — our Advocate, Counselor, and Friend.
May we learn to listen to His quiet voice and let His presence guide us into the heart of Christ.
— Fr. John Matthew, for Christian Way
