Hi, I have a genuine question. I grew up Catholic and have a desire to experience the Holy Spirit like I’ve seen others do. But I’m still in the Roman Catholic Church. Is that a problem? Do I have to leave before I can receive the Holy Spirit?
—Salome D, Mumbai
Answer:
Thank you for your question, Salome. I believe this is a genuine concern with friends from the Roman Catholic church.
The Holy Spirit Moves Beyond Systems
God is not restricted by labels. He doesn’t wait for someone to exit a denomination before He draws them in. His Spirit is poured out on all who hunger for Him—regardless of their background.
Acts 10:44–45 — While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all those who were listening to the message [confirming God’s acceptance of Gentiles]. All the circumcised believers who came with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. (AMP)
The Holy Spirit was not hindered by ethnicity, tradition, or prior beliefs. He moved on hearts prepared by truth.
Jesus Looks at the Heart, Not the Label
No one receives the Spirit by joining a group. Jesus never asked for allegiance to a system—only faith in Him.
John 7:37–39 — Now on the last and most important day of the feast, Jesus stood and called out in a loud voice, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink! He who believes in Me [who adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Me], as the Scripture has said, ‘From his innermost being will flow continually rivers of living water.’” But He was speaking of the [Holy] Spirit, whom those who believed in Him [as Saviour] were to receive; for the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified (raised to honour). (AMP)
The Greek word “pisteuō” (πιστεύω) is to entrust oneself—to lean wholly on Christ. That is what opens the soul to the Spirit.
The Spirit Enters—and Then He Begins to Lead
Once the Spirit is received, He does not leave you as He found you. He begins to unveil Christ. And anything that hinders Christ—no matter how ancient or respected—He begins to confront.
John 16:13 — But when He, the Spirit of Truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth [full and complete truth]. For He will not speak on His own initiative, but He will speak whatever He hears [from the Father—the message regarding the Son], and He will disclose to you what is to come [in the future]. (AMP)
The word “hodegēsei” (ὁδηγήσει) implies a journey, not a lecture. The Spirit always moves you from religion to reality—from symbols to substance.
You Cannot Stay Where the Spirit Is Quenched
Yes, the Spirit may begin the work in a Catholic setting. But He will not remain where Christ is replaced by ritual or where men replace the Headship of Jesus.
God speaks strongly to His people who remain within spiritual systems that glorify tradition above truth.
Revelation 18:4 — Then I heard another voice from heaven, saying, “Come out of her, my people, so that you will not be a partner in her sins and receive her plagues.” (AMP)
This cry is not just for Babylon in the end—it’s a call to any believer still seated under religious systems that resist the Spirit. The Greek word for “come out” here is “exerchomai” (ἐξέρχομαι)—to depart decisively and visibly.
The Spirit Does Not Partner with Mixture
Mixture dilutes life. The Spirit reveals the falseness of idolatry, the dangers of priestly hierarchy, and the error of man-centred worship. Once He opens your eyes, you can’t keep pretending.
2 Corinthians 6:16–17 — What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said, “I will dwell among them and walk among them; And I will be their God, and they shall be My people. So come out from among unbelievers and be separate,” says the Lord, “And do not touch what is unclean; And I will graciously receive you and welcome you [with favour]. (AMP)
The Spirit doesn’t demand performance—but He demands purity. He draws you to Christ alone.
Yes, You Can Receive—But You Will Also Be Led Out
God begins with your hunger. But He always completes what He starts. The journey is not just internal. It becomes visible. Spirit-led separation is not rebellion—it’s alignment.
Philippians 1:6 — I am convinced and confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will [continue to] perfect and complete it until the day of Christ Jesus [the time of His return]. (AMP)
If you’ve truly received the Spirit, He will not let you remain under coverings that deny Christ. He will call you out—not just physically, but theologically and spiritually.
I hope this answers your question.
In Christ,
Shaliach.
