Pentecost
The descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles, the birthday of the Church.
Pentecost falls on the seventh Sunday after Easter, 50 days counting Easter itself, so in Western churches it lands between May 10 and June 13.
When Is Pentecost?
Pentecost falls on the seventh Sunday after Easter, 50 days counting Easter itself, so in Western churches it lands between May 10 and June 13.
Because the Gregorian date changes from year to year, check a calendar published by the tradition or your local community for this year's date.
Why It Matters
Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples 50 days after Easter, as described in Acts 2. It is considered the birth of the Christian church and the beginning of its mission.
How It Is Observed
Church services often featuring red vestments (symbolizing fire), reading Acts 2, sometimes renewal of baptismal vows. In some traditions, speaking in tongues and charismatic worship.
Sacred Text
“They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”
, Acts 2:3-4 ↗