Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Spirit on the followers of Jesus. It is celebrated seven weeks (50 days) after Easter, and derives its name from that interval. In ancient Greek Pentēkostē means “fiftieth.”
As described in the second chapter of Acts, the Spirit descended on the entire community of apostles and other followers. The communal aspect of this experience is profound. Even today, we know that Spirit moves in community in ways we cannot easily replicate in isolation.
Creator God of many names, Give us your widest view;
We seek your Spirit none can tame, Your visions bright and new.
Leader: The presence of God is surely in this place.
People: The presence of God is everywhere.
Praise God whose breath fills all the earth
Whose love reveals our sacred worth
