Celebrate the Birthday of the Church!
On Sunday, May 27, 2007, Christian churches celebrate Pentecost. For Christians, Pentecost occurs fifty days after Easter. On that day, the church celebrates the happenings recorded in the New Testament Book of Acts, chapter 2. Notice when you go into church, the changes in colors in the sanctuary. Red is the color of Pentecost, and it signifies the tongues of flames seem over the heads of those praying together. The Scripture also tells us that the sound of the blowing of a violent wind filled the house where they were praying. In addition to the color red, churches often display tongues of flame and symbols of the wind on banners and posters.
In Scripture, we read that the believers were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to go into the streets telling of Jesus to all those they met. Following Peter's sermon, many were baptized; and the church began to grow. Because of this, we call Pentecost, "the birthday of the church."
In our families, we may have elaborate celebrations of Christmas and Easter, but fail to celebrate Pentecost. However, without Pentecost, we wouldn't have the church. It is worthwhile to spend time in family devotions and celebrations for this church holy day that helps us remember how the church began.
What can you do in your family to celebrate Pentecost?
- Read together Acts 2:1-40. Ask each family member to tell of one thing he or she will try to remember from the Scripture reading.
- Make a Pentecost cake to celebrate the birth of the church. Tint icing red and decorate. Place candles in clusters to symbolize the flames.
- Enjoy wind activities together. Make and fly a kite. Sit outside at dusk and feel the wind on your faces.
- Visit an older member of your church. Ask your church friend to tell you about memories of how your church started, of memories of Sunday school, and of memories of people who were important to his or her faith formation.
- Decorate your home by making red banners, posters, or pictures.
MaryJane Pierce Norton (mnorton@gbod.org) is the Team Leader for Family, Life-Span, and Latino Ministries at the General Board of Discipleship.