The Christian version of Pentecost celebrates the day the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples. Jesus talked about the importance of this event in John 16:1-15. He went so far as to say that it was better for him to leave so that he could send the Holy Spirit to be our advocate and counselor. However, one of the biggest tragic ironies of many Christian churches is that this day is pretty much breezed over (such an awful pun). We celebrate Mother’s Day like clockwork each and every year (Sorry, Mama, but you ain’t part of the Trinity), but Pentecost, the day that many consider to have kick-started the Christian Church, is lucky to get even a passing mention.
Now that’s not so say everyone misses out. Most associated with Pentecost is the color red representing the joy and fire of the Holy Spirit. There’s also lots of imagery of the dove which is the most common visual representation of the Holy Spirit a la the story of Jesus’ baptism.
Perhaps the most interesting thing I have learned in researching Pentecost is that in the Middle Ages, Christian churches would be built with holes in the roof to let in the Holy Spirit. Not so good for keeping out the rain or wayward pigeon, but a great symbol for the inflowing of the presence of God. Now on Pentecost, as the biblical account was being retold, they would lower doves through these holes (either figurines or real doves) and the choir would make noises or play trumpets to represent the rushing of the great wind. After that they would drop rose petals or burning pieces of straw through the holes to represent the tongues of fire. Talk about showmanship. If we did that in church today, I bet more people would show up for Pentecost than Christmas or Easter. Just don’t forget your Pentecost poncho when the dove’s play poo-poo bombardiers.
If you follow the literary allusions of King Arthur whereas on Pentecost “he would not go that day to meat until he had heard or seen of a great marvel”:
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