Whitsunday
Next occurrence: May 16, 2027
Theological Note
Whitsunday, the English name for Pentecost, falls fifty days after Easter and commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles assembled in Jerusalem. It is among the oldest and most solemn feasts of the Christian year, and its liturgical colour is red, signifying the tongues of fire by which the Spirit descended. The name Whitsunday is thought to derive from the white robes worn by those who received Holy Baptism at this season, for Whitsunday was one of the great baptismal days of the ancient Church.
The appointed Epistle from the Acts of the Apostles places the worshipper in the upper room on the day of Pentecost: the sudden sound as of a rushing mighty wind, the cloven tongues of flame resting upon each of them, and the gift of languages that drew men of every nation together to hear the wonderful works of God in their own tongue. Saint Peter's proclamation on that day, calling all to repentance and baptism in the name of Jesus Christ, marked the birthday of the Church.
The appointed Gospel from Saint John records the promise of the Paraclete, spoken by our Lord to his disciples in the upper room on the night before his Passion: the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance. The 1928 Book of Common Prayer appoints the Whitsunday Collect to be said daily throughout Whitsun Week, inviting the faithful to remain within the mystery of the Spirit's coming as the continuing source of the Church's life and witness.
Collect
O GOD, who as at this time didst teach the hearts of thy faithful people, by sending to them the light of thy Holy Spirit; Grant us by the same Spirit to have a right judgment in all things, and evermore to rejoice in his holy comfort; through the merits of Christ Jesus our Saviour, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the same Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen.
Epistle
Acts 2:1-11
Gospel
John 14:15-31
Study Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Whitsunday?
- Whitsunday is the English name for Pentecost, the feast observed fifty days after Easter that commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles assembled in Jerusalem.
- What does the liturgical colour red signify on Whitsunday?
- Red recalls the tongues of fire by which the Holy Spirit descended on the Apostles, and by which the Church was equipped and sent forth into the world to proclaim the Gospel.
- Why was Whitsunday a traditional baptismal day?
- Alongside Easter Even, Whitsunday was one of the ancient seasons appointed for Holy Baptism in the Church. The name is thought to derive from the white garments worn by the newly baptised.