What does it mean

The word Pentecost is Greek for 50 and means “the fiftieth day.”

It is used in both the Old Testament and the New Testament. In the OT it refers to a feast of seven weeks known as the Feast of Weeks. It was apparently an agricultural event that focused on the harvesting of first fruits. Josephus referred to Pentecost as the fiftieth day after the first day of Passover. The term is used in the NT to refer to the coming of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1), shortly after Jesus' death, resurrection, and ascension. Christians came to understand the meaning of Pentecost in terms of the gift of the Spirit. The Pentecost event was the fulfillment of a promise which Jesus gave concerning the return of the Holy Spirit. The speaking in tongues, which was a major effect of having received the Spirit, is interpreted by some to symbolize the church's worldwide preaching.

In the Christian tradition, Pentecost is now the seventh Sunday after Easter. It emphasizes that the church is understood as the body of Christ which is drawn together and given life by the Holy Spirit. Some understand Pentecost to be the origin and sending out of the church into the world. The Day of Pentecost is one of the seven principal feasts of the church year in the Episcopal Church.

The liturgical color for the feast is red. Pentecost has also been known as Whitsunday, from the term “White Sunday.” This term reflects the custom by which those who were baptized at the Vigil of Pentecost would wear their white baptismal garments to church on the Day of Pentecost.

Episcopal Church & Anglican Tradition

Join us in the undercroft on the remaining Sundays in May at 9:15 am for our continuing Adult Forum on Episcopal Church & Anglican Tradition: “Exploring the Faith”.

Final day to sign-up

Sign-up in the Narthex to see the matinee showing of Cactus Flower on Saturday, June 27 at the New Theatre & Restaurant in Overland Park.

Cost per person is $43.50. Payment is due to the church by May 24.

Submit your favorite hymn

Do you have a favorite hymn you would like to hear during the summer months? Members of the congregation are encouraged to submit the title(s) of their favorites hymns to Vaughn Scarcliff for possible inclusion in our services. The hymns do not have to be contained in our hymnals.

Please e-mail Vaughn or make a note and place it in the offering plate (or give it to him directly.)