The liturgical color for the Day of Pentecost is the red of fire, one of the day’s symbols for the Holy Spirit. The Bible often portrays God’s transforming presence through the symbol of fire: Moses and the burning bush, the pillar of fire that led the people of Israel through the wilderness, the fires of Mount Carmel and the temple in Jerusalem that consumed sacrificial offerings. The fire of the Pentecost story signifies how a collection of fearful disciples was transformed by the Spirit into a bold and active church.

Remembering that the gift of the Holy Spirit is not just for the church of the past or only a few, everyone is invited to wear red to worship next Sunday, May 23rd.