History:

   The Feast of Pentecost  is a Christian feast that dates back to the first century.  It is also called “Whitsunday” after the white garments worn by those receiving baptism during the vigil.  

     During Pentecost, our priests wear red vestments.  Red is used as a symbol of Love.  The Holy Spirit came upon the Apostles fifty days after the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. He gave the Apostles the glorious gift known as the Holy Spirit.  They now felt stronger and did not feel alone.


Today:

Pentecost occurs when the seven weeks of Easter has come to an end.  An outpouring of the Holy Spirit is a true celebration. Many traditions of the past have all but faded away, or have gone completely, such as baking the traditional Pentecost cake with red and white frosting, the displaying of one dozen roses (representing the twelve apostles and the twelve fruits of the Holy Spirit), or simply lighting twelve candles.  Let us remember that as Catholics we are baptized in the name of the Holy Spirit as well as the Father, and the Son.  When we attend Mass on Pentecost let us reflect on the red flame that glows within each of us.  Then we shall explore more deeply the Holy Spirit’s role in the church.