Pentecost, also known as Whitsunday, will be celebrated on May 28 this year. The word has its roots in the Greek word ‘pentecoste,’ which means ‘50th day.’ Pentecost is a major festival in the Christian church and is celebrated by believers on the Sunday that falls on the 50th day of Easter. This day is marked by Catholic priests dressing up in red robes and draping the altar of the church in red cloth. Believers would often choose to get baptized on Pentecost, and today it has become the most common day for baptism. Simply put, Pentecost marks the beginning of the Christian church’s mission to the world.
History of Pentecost
If you were to read the Old Testament, you will discover that Pentecost started off as a Jewish celebration. Only, the Jews didn’t call it Pentecost —it was known as the Feast of Harvest or the Feast of Weeks. The day celebrated the beginning of the early weeks of the wheat harvest. This meant that Pentecost was always celebrated during the middle of the month of May or occasionally in early June.
According to the Old Testament, the 50th day of Easter would be the Day of Pentecost. Since 50 days also equals seven weeks, Pentecost later came to be known as “week of weeks”. Therefore, some believers also celebrate the day as the Feast of Harvest or the Feast of Weeks.
But we no longer celebrate Pentecost the way they did before. Today, the day is commemorated as the moment in history when Christ ascended to heaven. Catholics believe that, on this day, the Holy Spirit descended on the Apostles and other disciples following the crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Christ. For Catholics, it is the day when Christ burst forth and promised his followers that God will forever protect them. Pentecost is also celebrated as the day to honor devout Catholics and their faith.
Pentecost timeline
Some of the first Pentecost hymns are composed by Bach in this year.
Some of the first Pentecost hymns are composed by Bach in this year.
Up until 1973, Ireland celebrates Pentecost as a public holiday.
Countries like Belgium, France, and Germany declare Pentecost as a public holiday.
Pentecost related content
Orthodox Pentecost Monday FAQs
What is the Pentecost?
Pentecost is a feast in honor of the Holy Spirit. It comes on the 50th day after Easter.
Why is Pentecost called “the Pentecost”
The word “Pentecost” comes from the Greek word “Pentekoste,” which means “fiftieth.” Pentecost is the name given to the feast because it is celebrated 50 days after Easter.
What is the dish to make on this day
Lamb stew has always been a traditional dish, but that does not mean it has to be cooked. Enjoy the festival any way you want.
How to celebrate Pentecost
Attend a mass
It is not necessary to be Orthodox to observe the day. Attend the holy mass at a church today, as every church will be speaking about the Holy Spirit and Christ's promise.
Get Baptized
Baptism is not only done at birth; it can also be done later in life. Get baptized by a holy man after a confession to wash away the sins.
Prepare a Feast
Pentecost is a feast, so fill your table with all of the delectable foods and decorations. Remember to invite your family and friends to the feast.
5 Interesting Facts About Orthodox Pentecost Monday
It is an adopted feast
Pentecost is an adopted festival from the Jewish harvest festival known as Shavuot.
It is key in Christianity
Many orthodox Christians believe that Pentecost marks the beginning of Christianity.
It has Biblical records
Pentecost is discussed in depth in Acts 2:1-13, which also explains the arrival of the Holy Spirit.
It is celebrated by the Jews
Pentecost is also celebrated by Jews, but theirs has a different origin story.
There’s a specific meal eaten then
Lamb stew is the typical Pentecost dish.
Why we love Pentecost
It rekindles the faith
Attending mass and being in the company of men of faith always renews believers' faith. Pentecost is unique among religious feasts because it is both a feast and a fulfillment of Christ's promise to his Apostles.
It is a feast
Who doesn't enjoy a good meal? Everyone does, and it's especially lovely when the whole family gets together to celebrate. Food on the table, time spent with family and friends, giving thanks to God, and appreciating the blessings are all things to be grateful for.
It signifies the birth of Christianity
The arrival of the Holy Spirit after Jesus' crucifixion, according to the Orthodox Church, confirmed their faith. This was the cornerstone upon which Christianity was built.
Orthodox Pentecost Monday dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | June 13 | Monday |
| 2023 | June 5 | Monday |
| 2024 | June 24 | Monday |
| 2025 | June 9 | Monday |
| 2026 | June 1 | Monday |
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