Sunday of Pentecost

The Season of Pentecost is the longest season of the Church Year, extending from the Day of Pentecost on June 8th through the end of the liturgical calendar just before Advent. It begins with the celebration of the Holy Spirit’s outpouring on the apostles found in the 2nd Chapter of the Book of Acts, marking the birth of the Church and its mission to proclaim the Gospel to all nations. On Pentecost Sunday, the liturgical color of red is used to symbolize the fire and the power of the Holy Spirit. Following Holy Trinity Sunday (June 15th), the color green is used throughout most of this season, symbolizing growth in faith and the life of the Church as it matures through the Spirit’s work in Word and Sacrament. Pentecost is not only a remembrance of a historical event but an ongoing invitation to live in the Spirit’s power and bear witness to Christ in everyday life.

Throughout the Season of Pentecost, we primarily focus on the teachings, miracles, and parables of Jesus, especially as recorded in the latter parts of the Gospels. The lectionary readings emphasize discipleship, the Kingdom of God, and how believers are called to live out their faith in response to God's grace. This "green season" is often viewed as a time of spiritual nourishment and deepening discipleship. It reminds the Church that the same Spirit who empowered the apostles continues to sustain and guide the Body of Christ today.