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Pastor’s Corner for the Solemnity of Pentecost, Year A, by Rev. Fr. Nobert Munekani SJ

This weekend, the Church celebrates Pentecost, one of the most important feast days of the year that concludes the Easter season and celebrates the beginning of the Church.

The name comes from the Greek word pentekoste which means fiftieth. The holiday is celebrated on the seventh Sunday after Easter which is also fifty days after Easter, hence the name. Since its date depends on the date of Easter, Pentecost is a moveable feast, that is, the date is not fixed. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ while they were in Jerusalem celebrating the Feast of Weeks.

This important event in the Christian faith is described in the Acts of the Apostles 2:1-31

From a historical perspective, Christianity didn’t start with Jesus’ birth, his death or even his ascension to heaven. It started with Pentecost – the day the “Holy Spirit” entered a room holding Jesus’ apostles and entered each of them, an event which – “makes the church the church.” This is the day we celebrate the birth of the Church.

One of the notable customs associated with Pentecost Sunday is the use of vibrant red colors in liturgical vestments and church decorations. This symbolizes the fiery tongues above the disciples’ heads during the original Pentecost event. Red also signifies the Holy Spirit’s fervor, power, and transformative nature. Additionally, churches are adorned with flowers and greenery, representing new life and faith flourishing

Another beloved custom associated with Pentecost Sunday is the practice of Confirmation.

In this sacrament, individuals publicly affirm their faith and receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit, strengthening their commitment to Christ and His Church. The sacrament of Confirmation aligns closely with the themes of empowerment and spiritual renewal that are central to Pentecost Sunday.

Furthermore, Pentecost Sunday serves as a reminder of the unity and diversity within the global Christian community. Just as the disciples were able to speak in different languages, the celebration of Pentecost brings together believers from various backgrounds and cultures, emphasizing the universal nature of the Gospel message.

Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth

For the sick

Let us continue to pray for the sick members of our parish especially Benedicta Ngwebelele, Joyce Xaba and Andrew Ledwaba.

Fr. N. Munekani SJ

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