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On the Feast of Pentecost, Christians commemorate the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles, gathered around the Mother of the Lord (Acts of the Apostles chapter 2). The feast is celebrated on the 50th and final day of the Easter season.

What is the story of Pentecost?

The eleven remaining Apostles returned to Jerusalem after the Ascension of Jesus into Heaven. Acts 1:14 says, “All these with one accord devoted themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.” During this time, the Apostles chose a replacement for Judas Iscariot. They cast lots between two men, and the lot fell on Matthias.

After nine days of prayer, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples. They heard a sound like a “mighty wind,” and “tongues as of fire” were resting on their heads.

Going out, Peter spoke to the crowd that had gathered. Even though, just a few weeks earlier, he had denied Christ three times, Peter courageously proclaimed the Gospel. That day, three thousand people believed in Christ and were received into His Church.

What is the meaning of Pentecost in the Scriptures?

St. Luke describes the setting of the descent of the Holy Spirit as “the day when Pentecost had come” (Acts 2:1). This Fiftieth Day (pentekoste) was for Israel a spring harvest feast ending the days of celebration after Passover. It was also a celebration of the giving of the Law on Mt. Sinai. For the Christian, it remains the “fiftieth day,” but after Jesus’ Passion, Death, and Resurrection, and the celebration of the Gift of the Holy Spirit.

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