With Easter over, Christians are looking forward to another important celebration in church history – Pentecost. You've probably heard about this, but what is it really all about? Why do Christians celebrate Pentecost and what does it mean for us?
What is Pentecost?
Pentecost is a Christian festival celebrating the gift of the Holy Spirit. Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to his disciples to help them in their faith, and continue their work of establishing the church and spreading the gospel further. Pentecost is also known as the birthday of Christian faith. Additionally, the word "Pentecost" comes from the Greek word "pentekoste," which means "fiftieth."
When is Pentecost 2018?
The date of the Pentecost varies every year as it takes place 50 days after Easter, so for 2018, it will be on May 20. In many countries, Pentecost is considered a secular public holiday.
What does Pentecost mean for Christians?
The significance of Pentecost lies in the baptism of the disciples with the Holy Spirit. Jesus made the promise in John 14:26 saying "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you." After dying on the cross and being resurrected, Jesus reappeared in front of the disciples to prove He was alive and well. He told them to wait in Jerusalem.
Come Pentecost, the disciples were waiting in an upper room in Jerusalem, bonded in prayer together when they heard the sound of a strong wind inside the house. This was the Holy Spirit and they were filled with it. They were given the gift of tongues. Immediately, Peter began his ministry, while the other disciples also spread the word, giving way to the birth of the church.
Nowadays, Pentecost Sunday is a celebration of the gift of the Holy Spirit. This holiday unites Christians together. It reminds Christians that, we too can receive the gift of the Holy Spirit and be witnesses to the ends of the Earth.
Other things you should know about the Pentecost
On Pentecost Sunday, most people will be wearing crimson or deep red. This is the color of Pentecost. However, for Catholics, they call this holiday Whitsunday, which comes from the words White Sunday. The white color symbolizes the color of the garment used when people are baptized. Additionally, in some countries, the church likes to do Confirmations on this day. This practice gives the young people responsibility for their own faith, which makes sense as the birthday of the church is all about inviting more people to join it.
Do be reminded that being a witness of God doesn't need to take place on Pentecost Sunday only. You can be His witness and spread the gospel every day of the week.
