The Acts of the Apostles recounts the story of the original Pentecost Sunday (Acts 2). Jews "from every nation under heaven" were gathered in Jerusalem to celebrate the Jewish feast of Pentecost. On that Sunday, ten days after the Ascension of Our Lord, the Apostles and the Blessed Virgin Mary were gathered in the Upper Room, where they had seen Christ after His Resurrection: And suddenly there came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind, and it filled the entire house in which they were. Then there appeared to them tongues as of fire, which parted and came to rest on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different tongues, as the Spirit enabled them to proclaim. [Acts 2:2-4]
Christ had promised His Apostles that He would send His Holy Spirit, and, on Pentecost, they were granted the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The Apostles began to preach the Gospel in all of the languages that the Jews who were gathered there spoke, and about 3,000 people were converted and baptized that day. That is why Pentecost is often called "the birthday of the Church." On Pentecost Sunday, with the descent of the Holy Spirit, Christ's mission is completed, and the New Covenant is inaugurated. It's interesting to note that Saint Peter, the first pope, was already the leader and spokesman for the Apostles on Pentecost Sunday (see Acts 2:14ff).
You probably have noticed that we have a new sign for our church. Due to its age and incorrect information, the Parish Council and I thought that we should get a new sign for the church. The Parish Council discussed a number of designs and concepts and came up with what we now have. Originally it was going to be purchased with part of the proceeds from the Summer Vacation Raffle (don’t forget to get your tickets!!!!), but due to the generosity of the Philadelphia Sign Company, we were able to get the sign at no cost. The Philadelphia Sign Company donated everything; the cost of the design work, the production of the sign and its installation! We are very grateful to Rob Mehmet and the Philadelphia Sign Company for its generous gift to Saint Rose of Lima! Please offer up a prayer or two in gratitude on behalf of the Philadelphia Sign Company.
God bless,
Father Joseph Byerley
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