What is Whit Sunday or Pentecost Sunday?
Whit Sunday or Pentecost Sunday in France is a Christian observance holiday and there are special services in many of the cathedrals and churches around the country. Pentecost marks the occasion of the Holy Spirit descending on to the followers of Jesus Christ while they were in Jerusalem celebrating the Feast of Weeks.
Pentecost Sunday is celebrated fifty days after Easter Sunday so the date varies each year.
The Holy Spirit is symbolised by a white dove and so you will find the white dove associated with the celebration of Whit Sunday and Pentecost Sunday.
Earlier this week when I was in Saint Severin church in Paris which is in the heart of the Latin Quarter and only round the corner from Saint Julien-le-Pauvre Church, the church was in full preparation for Whit Sunday. There was an art installation of white origami doves hanging from the ceiling appearing to be in perpetual flight and almost magical when the filtered light of the stained windows hit their bright white wings.
Church Services In France On Whit Sunday Or Pentecost Sunday
In some churches during the special Whit Sunday service people blow trumpets, with the sound symbolising the mighty wind that blew when The Spirit descended. Followers may be baptised or re-baptised on Pentecost Sunday.
For many others, this day is like any other Sunday: meals with family, walks around their local park and usually not going to work. Picnic luncheons are popular on Pentecost Monday.
The Tourist In France On Whit Sunday Or Pentecost Sunday
For the tourist, there may be no access to some churches during services, there will be more traffic on the roads at either end of the long weekend (families often travel to their country homes) and cafes and restaurants outside of the main tourist areas may be closed. Banks, most shops, and post offices will be closed as per usual on a Sunday.
Take care and remember to check for national holidays when planning a trip to France to make sure you can do everything you plan with minimal disruption with our Calendar of French Public Holidays and National Celebration Days
Other Celebration Dates In France
- Bastille Day – Find out how the French celebrate this greatest day on their calendar
- All Saints Day or Toussaint – A national holiday this day stops the nation
- Armistice Day in France – Remembering the fallen from World War I and II takes special significance in the Somme department
