Pentecost Reflection

What is Pentecost Sunday

Pentecost Sunday is a celebration of the events that took place 50 days after Easter. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles of Jesus, Mary, and other followers of Christ, This important day in the church calendar marks the "Birthday of the Church.”

What happened that day

Acts 2:1–4 describes what happened on that day when God poured out His Spirit on the apostles:

When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Link to Confirmation

Next month, Year Six students from St Joseph’s and St Mary’s will celebrate the sacrament of Confirmation. This Sacrament of Initiation is considered a personal experience of Pentecost. Just as the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles to empower them to share the Gospel, the Sacrament of Confirmation bestows that same Spirit and gifts upon the Candidates, strengthening them for their spiritual journey and mission.

Prayer for Confirmation Candidates

Lord, You send out Your Spirit to touch the hearts of all people. Look kindly on our candidates for Confirmation as they listen to Your voice and prepare to receive the Sacrament. Open their hearts to Your Spirit and bring to fulfillment the good work that You have begun in them. Send your Holy Spirit upon them to be their helper and guide. Give them the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of right judgment and courage, the spirit of knowledge and reverence, and fill them with a sense of wonder and awe in Your presence.

Amen.