Course 4, Chapter 43: Christianity visible. — Pentecost

1. Wrhat is Pentecost?

Pentecost is the day on which the Holy Ghost descended upon the apostles. The word pen tecost signi fies fifty, and it was fifty days after the resurrection of our Lord that the Ploly Ghost descended upon the apostles. These fifty days comprise the paschal time, which is a joyful preparation for the feast of pentecost.

2. How does the church prepare us for this fea«t?

The church prepares us further for this feast: 1st, by inviting us to spend in recollection and prayer tlra ten days which intervene between the ascension aAj^entecost; 2d, by appointing a vigil with the obligaflSh of fasting.

3. How did the Holy Ghost descend upon the apostles?

The Holy Ghost descended upon the apostles in the shape of tongues as of fire. Fire illumines, elevates, purifies and changes into itself whatever it embraces. Such was the effect produced by the Holy Ghost upon the apostles, and such still is the- effect upon all those who receive him in a worthy manner.

4. Why did the Holy Ghost appear in the shape of tongues?

He appeared in the shape of tongues to show that the apostles were every where to preach the gospel, of which he came to give them a perfect under standing:.

5. What gifts formerly attended the descent of the Holy Ghost upon the faithful?

In the first ages the descent of the Holy Ghost upon the faithful in the sacrament of confirmation was commonly attended with extraordinary gifts, such as the gift of tongues and of prophecy. They ceased when religion became firmly established.

6. What are the requisite dispositions for receiving the Holy Ghost, and celebrating properly the feast ot Pentecost?

They are: 1st, an ardent desire to receive the Holy Ghost; 2d, freedom from all inordinate affections.