Sunday of Pentecost -
June 15,
2003
[ Click here for the Bible readings: Acts
2:1-11; John 7:37-52; John 8:12]
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POWER COMES FROM GOD
The Feast of Pentecost is
one of the most ancient of religious festivals observed by mankind.
Thousands of years ago this day was called the "Feast of
Weeks" and was dedicated to giving gratitude to God for the gift of
seedtime and harvest cycle of life. Later, Pentecost became even more
important in Old Testament life as it became associated with the giving
of the 10 Commandments by God.
But the Christian Pentecost
has a new dimension, a new meaning. It marks the day when the Holy
Spirit, promised by Christ to His followers, descended upon the
Christian community, transforming it, giving it power, strength, vision
and mission "to go forth and teach all nations."
A vivid account of the
Descent of the Holy Spirit is recorded in the Acts of the Apostles.
Fifty days after the Resurrection of Christ, believers in the Lord
gathered together, waiting and praying. Suddenly there came the sound of
rushing wind, and then tongues of fire appeared over the heads of the
Christians. The Holy Spirit had come!
Excitement filled the area,
and soon thousands came to see what was happening. They were amazed to
hear the Apostles speaking in various languages. St. Peter stood up and
preached a powerful message, proclaiming Christ who was crucified but
then raised from the dead. Some 3,000 persons believed and were
baptized, becoming part of that early Christian community.
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