Pentecost: the birthday of the church and the power of the Holy Spirit

Pentecost: the birthday of the church and the power of the Holy Spirit

Echternach, Luxemburg - Pentecost is celebrated this year on June 8th and 9th and is considered the birth of the Christian Church. According to Oe24 , the festival is celebrated 50 days after Easter; The name "Pentecost" comes from the Greek word "pentēkostē", which means "the fiftieth". This holiday reminds the faithful of the aus of the Holy Spirit about the disciples of Jesus, as described in the history of apostles (Chapter 2).

After the death and resurrection of Jesus, the disciples retired, an extraordinary event happened until Pentecost. A roar filled the room and fire tongues appeared above the heads of the disciples. These were filled with courage and strength and began to announce the message of Christ in different languages. According to katholisch.de on this day over 3,000 people converted to Christian faith and thus marked the beginning of the worldwide mission.

The Holy Spirit and its symbols

The Holy Spirit, the third person of Trinity, is at the center of the celebration, alongside God Father and Jesus Christ. He is considered the living power of God in the world, invisible, but noticeable and effective. The symbols of the Holy Spirit, which shape the day, include fire, wind and pigeon, which stand for liveliness, change and divine inspiration. According to ekd.de , the liturgical color is traditionally used in the churches to clarify the reference to fire.

Pentecost is not only celebrated in the Catholic churches, where it is a strong -strength and solemn trade fairs are kept on Pentecost Sunday and often also on Whit Monday. In Germany, Whit Monday is even a legal holiday. Many believers have previously prayed the Pentecost Noven, a nine -day prayer to prepare for this significant festival.

traditions and customs

Pentecost has deep roots and diverse customs. During the holidays, baptisms, company and even consecration of priests are often taken into account that are connected to the program of the Holy Spirit. In some regions, a decorated birch is traditionally placed in front of the partner's house, and pranks are played, which underlines the festive mood.

also reminds Pentecost of reconciliation and the new community with God. It is celebrated in many Christian countries worldwide, including the USA, Canada and Australia. Apostle history describes the Pentecost miracle as a dramatic event that had far -reaching consequences for the spread of Christianity. Pentecost remains a central point in the Christian calendar, which always shows the believers that faith is alive and gives renewing energy.