Paraclete

Paraclete (Greek: Paraklētos) is the title Jesus used for the Holy Spirit in John's Gospel — translated variously as "Advocate," "Helper," "Comforter," or "Counselor." Jesus promised to send the Paraclete after his Ascension to continue his presence and mission within the Church (CCC 692).

The Meaning of the Word

Paraklētos literally means "one called alongside" — someone summoned to stand beside another for help, support, or legal defense. In Greco-Roman legal context, a paraklētos was an advocate who pleaded on behalf of a defendant. Jesus uses this legal imagery: the Holy Spirit will be the Church's advocate — supporting, defending, and pleading its cause before the world and before God (CCC 692).

The Five Paraclete Sayings

Jesus refers to the Paraclete five times in John's Gospel (14:16–17; 14:26; 15:26; 16:7–11; 16:13–15). In these passages, the Paraclete: dwells within the disciples forever; teaches and brings to remembrance all that Jesus said; bears witness to Jesus; convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment; and guides the Church into all truth (CCC 729).

"Another" Advocate

Jesus says he will send "another Paraclete" — implying that he himself is also a Paraclete. The First Letter of John confirms this: "If anyone sins, we have an Advocate (Paraklēton) with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous" (1 John 2:1). The Spirit continues Christ's own advocacy (CCC 692).

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Paraclete guide the Church into truth? The Holy Spirit's guidance of the Church into truth is exercised through the Magisterium (the teaching office of the Church), through the Scriptures (which he inspired), and through the sensus fidei (the spiritual sense of the faith that the whole Church possesses). This guidance is not dictation but inspiration — working through human minds and institutions (CCC 91–93).