Christians around the world will celebrate Pentecost this Sunday, commemorating the coming of the Holy Spirit 50 days after Easter. As the third most significant feast in Christianity—after Easter and Christmas—Pentecost marks the culmination of the Easter season. Its name derives from the Greek word pentékosté, meaning ‘fiftieth’.
According to a statement from the Hungarian Catholic Bishops’ Conference (MKPK), Pentecost represents the crowning moment of Easter. The Church teaches that the Holy Spirit descended in a hidden and mysterious form, like tongues of fire, upon Mary, the mother of Jesus, and his disciples. Empowered by this divine presence, they became witnesses to Christ, spreading his message ‘to the ends of the earth.’
Pentecost has its origins in the Old Testament, where it began as a harvest festival celebrating the first fruits offered to God. Over the centuries, especially by the time of Jesus, it had also become a commemoration of the giving of the Law and the covenant made on Mount Sinai. The convergence of the Spirit’s arrival and the remembrance of divine law enriches the holiday’s meaning: ‘The law is no longer just written on stone tablets, but inscribed in the hearts of those who accept it,’ the bishops stated.
As described in the Bible, the apostles, filled with the Holy Spirit, began preaching in many languages, making the Gospel understood by people from diverse nations. This miracle of tongues demonstrated the unity that faith can create among people, regardless of language or background. In this way, Pentecost marks the founding of the Church itself.
On the Saturday before Pentecost, one of the most significant religious and national events for Hungarians takes place: the Csíksomlyó pilgrimage. This gathering is both a spiritual and cultural celebration for the entire Hungarian community.
Pentecost Monday is also observed with a special liturgical memory of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, a designation established by the Congregation for Divine Worship in 2018.
Through centuries of evolving meaning and tradition, Pentecost continues to symbolize divine inspiration, spiritual renewal, and the unifying power of faith.
Related articles:
