Pentecost in Australia

Pentecost is a part of the Christian celebrations. This event commemorates the decent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples of Jesus Christ. This Christian celebration happens after the Ascension or on the seventh Sunday after Easter Sunday.

The Background of Pentecost

According to the Christian Bible, the disciples gathered together on the fiftieth day after Easter or the seventh Sunday after Jesus Christ was risen from the dead. The followers of Jesus Christ prayed together, and while they were praying, the Holy Spirit descended upon them. When the Holy Spirit descended, it was in this moment when they received the “gift of tongue”. The “gift of tongue” made them speak different languages. Their ability to speak in many languages let them preach about Jesus Christ and his works around the world.

The Importance of Pentecost in the Christian World

Before Pentecost happened, there were no groups or movements that can be formally called “the church”. That means that even if Jesus Christ had followers already, a church has not established yet. Therefore, when the Pentecost happened, the official church of Jesus Christ started. In the Christian community, it was the Holy Spirit who brought about the existence of the church through its descent to the disciples. Due to this happening, the day of Pentecost may also be recognized as the birthday of the church.

Pentecost in the Christian Community in Australia

Australia has a strong Christian community which never fails to commemorate Christian events, such as the Pentecost Sunday. In Australia, the Christians also call Pentecost the Whitsunday or Whit Sunday. The Pentecost in the Christian community is all about the coming of the Holy Spirit. During the Pentecost, the churches in Australia are decorated with flowers. These flowers, usually white and red in colour, symbolize the Holy Spirit. There are also many lighted candles in the churches. Like flowers, candle is also a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Dove is also a symbol of the Holy Spirit.

Readings and scriptures about the Holy Spirit are highlighted on the Sunday of the Pentecost. The Christian priests focus their sermon on about the Holy Spirit and the importance of the Pentecost event in the Christian world. Christian schools, especially Sunday Schools, focus their discussions about the Pentecost. Some of the schools even organize retreats and other activities that are aligned with the celebration of the Pentecost.

The Public and the Pentecost Sunday in Australia

The Pentecost Sunday is not declared as a holiday in Australia. But because it falls on a Sunday, public offices, government departments, schools, and some commercial establishments are not open. There are no major obstructions in the traffic during this event.