By Fr. Paul D. Scalia, The Catholic Thing - “It is the decision of the Holy Spirit and of us…” This line from today’s first reading (Acts 15:1-2, 22-29) sounds a little odd. As if the decision of the Holy Spirit wasn’t enough, the Apostles have to add “and of us.” It calls to mind the story of the priest who pompously began his sermon, “Our Lord once said – and I think He’s right…” Or, still curiouser, it can sound as though the Holy Spirit and the Apostles had finally come to some agreement. Still, despite its odd sound, the phrase is extraordinarily important – and a harbinger of peace.