Whit Monday

History of Whit Monday

Pentecost commemorates the day when the Holy Spirit visited the apostles and blessed them with the ‘gift of tongues.’ If Pentecost is celebrated on the 50th day after Easter, we can deduce that Whit Monday is marked on the 51st day. The day also commemorates the birth of the Christian Church and some believe that the first Whit Monday was celebrated as early as the first century. The dates for Pentecost and Whit Monday also depend on the ecclesiastical approximation of the March equinox.

Whit Monday was also one of the first major annual holidays in the United States of America. In 1835 and just after the Civil War, Whit Monday also came to be known as the ‘Dutch Fourth of July.’ People would celebrate by gathering to eat, drink, and entertain themselves with dancing and music. Until 1967, Ireland and the United Kingdom observed Whit Monday as a public holiday and bank holiday, respectively.

Some Orthodox churches still observe Whit Monday in accordance with the Julian calendar. The Julian calendar precedes the Gregorian calendar and has been adopted by many Western Churches. Devout Catholics also refer to the Julian calendar when it comes to celebrating Pentecost and Whit Monday.

Whit Monday timeline

1967

No More Bank Holiday in the U.K.

Until 1967, Whit Monday is celebrated as a bank holiday in the United Kingdom but after this, it becomes a normal working day.

1973

No More Public Holiday in Ireland

Until 1973, Whit Monday is celebrated as a public holiday in Ireland but after this, it is stopped.

2005

Replaced as National Sweden Day

Sweden starts celebrating Whit Monday as National Sweden Day.

2018

A Date is Fixed

The Pope decides that Whit Monday will be a fixed celebration of the new feast.

Whit Monday FAQs

When is Whit Monday?

In 2027, Whit Monday will be observed on Monday, May 17, following Pentecost Sunday. This day offers a chance for spiritual reflection and community engagement.

What is the significance of Whit Monday?

For Christians, Whit Monday emphasizes the ongoing presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit. It’s a time to reflect on the foundations of faith and the empowerment of believers as described in the New Testament.

Is Whit Monday a public holiday?

The status of Whit Monday as a public holiday varies internationally. In 2027, many European nations will grant a day off for this observance, reflecting its deep cultural and religious roots in those regions.

What is the connection between Whit Monday and Pentecost?

Pentecost marks the 50th day after Easter, celebrating the birth of the Christian Church. Whit Monday serves as a continuation of this celebration, allowing for further reflection on the spiritual gifts and mission of the church.

How to Observe Whit Monday

Go to church

All Catholic churches celebrate Whit Monday. Take part in the celebrations at your local church to fully immerse yourself in the festivities of the day.

Join a prayer rally

Prayer rallies and street marches are a part of Whit Monday celebrations. These are fun ways to celebrate, especially if you plan to participate with children.

Dress up in white

White is the color of Whit Monday. Dress up in the day’s colors to celebrate with your loved ones.

5 Facts About Whit Monday That Will Blow Your Mind

It dates back to the first century

Whit Monday celebrations are believed to date back to the first century — the day celebrated the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles.

It is also known as the Monday of the Holy Spirit

The Eastern Orthodox church celebrates Whit Monday as the Monday of the Holy Spirit.

The symbol of the day is white

On Whit Sunday, the church dons the color white — flames, wind, the breath of God, and doves are the symbols associated with Whit Monday.

It is a public holiday

Whit Monday is a public holiday in several countries like the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Norway, among others.

The French celebrate it, too

Whit Sunday is celebrated in France, too, albeit by a different name - Day of Solidarity.

Why Whit Monday is Important

It celebrates the beginning of the church

The church is an important part of people’s lives. It’s a place that comforts them and brings the community together. Whit Monday is a great day to celebrate this.

The hymns!

The hymns that are sung on Whit Monday are the same as those sung on Pentecost. Joyful and invoking the Holy Spirit, the hymns are everyone’s favorite.