Today is
Pentecost, the day the Holy Spirit rested upon the Apostles, the birth of the
Christian Church, 50 days after Easter.
It is one of the ‘high holy days’ for many Christian denominations. Our church has a couple traditions on this
day. First, there is usually a baptism,
welcoming new members into the community of Christ. As a matter of fact, both of our kids were
baptized on the Pentecost following their births. We encourage wearing red to represent the
fire of the Holy Spirit burning within us.
And we bedeck the sanctuary in red: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=595490487157281&set=o.256137074422285&type=1&theater
But one of the unique things we do is have the lesson in
Acts read by many people, in a variety of languages. Our congregation is made up of Americans,
Africans from a variety of nations, Central Americans, Pilipino, Malaysians,
Cubans and Italians. We invite anyone
who wishes, to read from their native or trained tongue, representing how, when
the Holy Spirit came down, She gave people the ability to not only speak but to
understand multiple languages. The
Church was able to spread beyond the contingent of Apostles and their followers,
and grow.
Oh Spirit of the Living God,
you bring us into relationships to share all the wonder of our faith. We often do not know how to communicate that
faith, but trust that we can find ways to represent it. We call to you, Come Holy Spirit! Come!
Fill us with your grace, strength and passion. Come Holy Spirit! Come!
Amen.