A papal conclave blends the political and the spiritual, cardinals and theologians say. Here, in Catholic belief, is how the Holy Spirit fits in.

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of thy faithful and enkindle in them the fire of thy love. V. Send forth thy spirit and they shall be created. R. And thou shalt renew the face of the earth.

Then they chanted the “Veni, Sancte Spiritus” (Come Holy Spirit) as they paraded into the Sistine Chapel. The master of ceremonies then declared “extra omnes” (everyone out). Once the ...

Pentecost is the definitive gift of the Holy Spirit. What do I mean by “definitive?” It is the final, fullest outpouring of the Spirit. God’s Spirit has been active in the world from the start.