What Are the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit?

The Holy Spirit is Active

Paul writes in his Letter to the Galatians “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is now law.” (Galatians 5:22-23). According to Paul, these nine attributes sum up Christian life. In Catholic, and other Church traditions, there are 12 fruits of the Holy Spirit. To better understand the Fruits of the Holy Spirit, turn to Matthew’s Gospel: Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.” (Matthew 7:17-20). This passage helps us understand the observable behaviors of people who have allowed the grace of the Holy Spirit to be active in their lives. Here are the 12 fruits of the Holy Spirit and their meanings.

Charity

Charity nearly always means “love” when it is referenced in the Bible. Charity to indicate “giving” is mentioned in Acts 9:36 which references a disciple named Tabitha who was full of good works and acts of charity. We exhibit charity, or love when we are unselfishly devoted to God and our neighbors. We are told in Matthew 25:34-36, 40 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me…And the King will answer to them, Truly, I say to you, as you did it on the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.” When we care for those in need, we are doing God’s will. When we see a brother or sister and need and we have no empathy, love is not in us.