The Feast of Pentecost or Whit Sunday is an annual Christian festival commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit on the disciples of Jesus after his ascension from earth to heaven on Ascension Day.
Whit Sunday, or Whitsun is often used in the UK and simply means “White Sunday”, as white garments used to be worn by those newly baptized on this day. Pentecost, means “fiftieth day”, as it is held on the 50th day from Easter Sunday. Some Christian denominations consider it to be the birthday of the Christian church and celebrate it as such. It can fall as early as May 10th and as late as June 13th.
Whit Sunday is followed by Whit Monday, a public holiday in many countries with Christian traditions.
Hymns The Feast of Pentecost or Whit Sunday in each lectionary year.