Pentecost and the Holy Spirit

The disciples were all together in one place in Jerusalem, praying and waiting, just as Jesus had told them to. Suddenly a sound like the rushing of a mighty wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. What looked like tongues of fire appeared and rested on each of them. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages as the Spirit gave them ability.

Jews from every nation under heaven were in Jerusalem for the feast. They were bewildered to hear these Galileans speaking in every language. Peter stood up and preached boldly — this was the same Peter who, just weeks before, had been too afraid to admit he knew Jesus. He proclaimed the resurrection of Christ with extraordinary courage. About three thousand people believed and were baptized that day.

The disciples who had been hiding in fear were transformed into bold witnesses by the power of the Holy Spirit. This is the birthday of the Church. The same Holy Spirit who descended on the disciples at Pentecost is given to every Coptic Christian at the moment of their baptism and confirmation. He lives in you, guides you, comforts you, and gives you power to live for God. You are never alone — the Spirit of the living God lives within you.