Pentecost Sunday

Celebrating Pentecost

Red is the color of the Holy Spirit, reminding us of the tongues of fire that descended on the disciples. When you come to Mass, wear Pentecost colors (red, orange, and yellow) on your tie, dress, shirt, or other visible article of clothing. The Church will be decorated with red and fiery-colored flowers.

In some churches, rose petals are dropped from the ceiling at the end of Mass, symbolizing the Holy Spirit descending in the form of red tongues of flame with a great noise upon the disciples.

As with any great feast, a meal with family is laudable. Given how on this day the disciples began their mission to baptize all nations, one idea for the meal is food from different cultures.

Novena to the Holy Spirit for the Seven Gifts

Day 1: Friday, May 10

Day 2: Saturday, May 11

Day 3: Sunday, May 12

Day 4: Monday, May 13

Day 5: Tuesday, May 14

Day 6: Wednesday, May 15

Day 7: Thursday, May 16

Day 8: Friday, May 17

Day 9: Vigil of Pentecost, Saturday, May 18

By most ancient tradition (before A.D. 400), the day before Pentecost (Saturday, June 4) is a fast day. While the fast is no longer obligatory, the Church still encourages us on this day to practice self-denial, penitential prayer and fasting. Not only is fasting offered up as restitution for our sins and for others, but it also helps us enjoy the feast even more.