This week at BDC we join with churches around the world, remembering the coming of the Holy Spirit to the very early church.

The ‘disciples’, or ‘students’, of Jesus had been learning from him and following him for around three years before witnessing Jesus’ death and resurrection. Before returning to heaven, Jesus told them that they would now be the teachers and leaders of the growing community of faith. From this moment in the scripture, they are no longer described as ‘disciples’ but as ‘apostles’ - those who are ‘sent’.

It’s a big task, and a daunting one!! Jesus assured them that they did not have to face it alone. Instead, they were to wait for the Holy Spirit to come to them, filling them with courage and power for their ministry. The Holy Spirit came, in wind and flame, and the believers immediately went out into the world, proclaiming the good news of Jesus and baptising people in his name.

Today, the Holy Spirit still inspires and empowers the church for our work in the world - even when it seems impossible or we seem to have lost our way. Pentecost is a time of celebration and thanksgiving, for all the gifts God gives to us, as individuals and as a community. But it is also a time of renewal and reflection - a time to ask ourselves how well we are living into those gifts we have been given.

Here at BDC, we have several activities and celebrations occurring throughout the week of Pentecost. If you would like to join the fun at home, here are some suggestions…

• Make a birthday cake - the coming of the Holy Spirit was the beginning of the church, so it’s the church’s birthday this week
• Listen to the song we are using in Chapel - and try to keep up with the actions! Fruit of the Spirit Song- Motions
• Fly a kite, play with a wind sock, watch the trees move in the breeze - enjoy the power of the invisible wind, which reminds us of the Spirit that moves unseen
• Have a campfire and talk about your hopes and visions for the future - and may the Spirit inspire your dreaming
• Read up on the gifts of the Spirit, and tell your kids which gifts you really see and value in them. You might also open a discussion about which of these are most important, and which are the most challenging for each of you.

Rev Lisa Williamson
Chaplain