When astronomers examine the cosmos they now believe they can see see the debris of the Big Bang explosion which threw matter all around the universe at its inception. ( In one sense all matter in the universe is part of that debris.) The manner in which galaxies and vast nebulea have been thrown around testify to the enormous amounts of energy that was released.When we celebrate Pentecost we are remembering a second act of creation, another sort of 'Big Bang'. God the Holy Spirit descends upon the apostles and those in the Upper Room and they are given power to testify to the good news of Jesus Christ. So powerful and profound is the experience that 'tongues of flames' are seen resting upon them. Within a short space of time the number of believers increases into the thousands and soon the message is carried around the world.
Many people have described this feast, often called Whitsun, as the birth of the worldwide Church. In my large parish we used to buy a big cake and put thirteen candles on it and have it after the service. Pentecost over the years has sadly become the Cinderella service and we are in danger of losing its potency. For me it particularly special since I was ordained priest on Pentecost Sunday. For others it can be a time to renew their faith or make a new faith commitment.
Astonomers use powerful telescopes to see the evidence of the Big Bang. Much of this evidence is remote and needs a lot of computation. But for Christians the 'Big Bang' at Pentecost has more visible after effects, lives are changed and transformed. Lets hope that others will see from us that God is alive and active, in our explosive generous love.
Daniel
Vicar
