To signify the presence of the Holy Spirit

The Season of Easter concludes tomorrow with the Feast of Pentecost.

On Pentecost we celebrate the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles gathered in the upper room in Jerusalem. This event marks the beginning (birthday) of the Church.

In honor of this joyous occasion, it is popular tradition to wear red to church, to signify the presence of the Holy Spirit in our community and our unity in Christ.

The name Pentecost comes from the Greek word Pentēkostē, which literally means “the 50th day.” The events of the day are foretold by Jesus in the Acts of the Apostles, just before his Ascension.

Pentecost has also been known as Whitsun or Whitsunday, a variation of “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.