In this episode of Holy Spirit Activate, Fr. David Dodd, TOR, explores one of the most misunderstood and deeply personal charisms of the Holy Spirit—the gift of tongues. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 12, Church tradition, and teachings from the saints, Fr. David clarifies what this gift truly is: speech inspired by the Holy Spirit in a language unknown to the speaker, given primarily as a means of praise and personal edification.

With humility and joy, Fr. David unpacks common misconceptions about tongues, shares personal experiences, and highlights testimonies from saints like St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, and St. Teresa of Avila. He emphasizes that this gift is not about spectacle or confusion but about a childlike surrender to the Spirit, especially when human language falls short of expressing the depth of love and gratitude for God.

Whether you're skeptical or curious, this episode offers a thoughtful and pastoral perspective on the gift of tongues—inviting listeners to consider what it might mean to praise God beyond words, and to grow in trust, humility, and intimacy with the Lord.