Pentecost Year A
Sunday May 24, 2026
Mass Readings for Pentecost Year A
Holy Spirit, breathe into our hearts and let us inhale the tenderness of the Father. Breathe upon the Church, so that she may spread the Gospel with joy. Breathe upon the world the fresh restoration of hope.
Pope Francis
Themes for Pentecost Year A
Pentecost Year A celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit. The readings show how the Spirit brings unity, renewal, and guidance to God’s people.
- Gift of the Holy Spirit: The Spirit comes to the disciples, giving them strength and wisdom. This gift helps them spread the message of Jesus.
- Unity in the Spirit: People from different places understand the disciples in their own languages. The Spirit brings people together, overcoming barriers.
- New Life in Christ: The Spirit brings life, just as in Ezekiel’s vision of dry bones. Through the Spirit, believers are made new and filled with hope.
- Power of God’s Presence: The readings describe God’s presence in fire, wind, and mighty works. The Spirit shows God’s power working in the world.
- Mission of the Church: Jesus sends His followers to share His message and offer forgiveness. The Spirit gives them courage and guidance to continue His work.
- Thirst for the Spirit: Jesus offers living water, which means the Spirit. Those who seek Him will be filled and renewed.
Pentecost Year A reminds us that the Spirit is always with us. The Spirit gives us strength, leads us to truth, and helps us live as followers of Jesus.
Resources for Pentecost Year A
Sunday May 24, 2026
- Have a Birthday Party for the Church
- The Holy Spirit Is Like the Wind (Kite Activity)
- Inspired By You Letters
- Acts of the Apostles: The Spirit Unites the Church
- Psalm 104: The Spirit Renews Creation
- 1 Corinthians: One Spirit, Many Gifts
- The Gospel of John: Peace and Sending
- Book of Genesis: Tower Talk and Scattered Speech (Vigil Mass)
- Book of Exodus: A Mountain Meeting with God (Vigil Mass)
- The Book of Ezekiel: Dry Bones and New Life (Vigil Mass)
- The Book of Joel: Spirit for All (Vigil Mass)
- The Letter to the Romans: Waiting with Hope (Vigil Mass)
- The Gospel of John: Living Water and the Spirit (Vigil Mass)
Have a Birthday Party for the Church
Pentecost Year A is a great time to celebrate the birthday of the Church and remember the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit gave the disciples courage to go out and share the good news. A fun and meaningful way to teach this is through a birthday party for the Church. Games, decorations, and food can make the celebration exciting while also helping young people understand the importance of Pentecost.
Pentecost Year A also reminds us that the Holy Spirit is still at work. Just as the Spirit helped the disciples, it helps believers today. Taking time to talk about personal experiences with the Holy Spirit can inspire teens to see how God is guiding them. They can also think about their own gifts and how they can use them to serve others. Celebrating Pentecost can be a way to grow in faith and learn to share it with the world.
The Holy Spirit Is Like the Wind (Kite Activity)
Pentecost Year A reminds us that the Holy Spirit moves in ways we cannot always see, just like the wind. The wind has power to guide, push, and change direction, and the Holy Spirit works the same way in our lives. We may not see the Spirit, but we can feel its pull, leading us toward what is right. Just as the wind lifted the kite, the Holy Spirit lifts us up and gives us strength.
Pentecost Year A also shows that the Spirit calls people to action. When we listen to the Holy Spirit, we are guided in the right direction. If we ignore it, we may struggle, just like a kite that falls when pulled the wrong way. The Holy Spirit gives wisdom and courage to follow God’s plan. Learning to recognize and trust the Spirit helps believers grow in faith and live as followers of Jesus.
Inspired By You Letters
The “Inspired By You” letters activity is a great way to think about the power of faith and the Holy Spirit. Pentecost Year A reminds us that the Spirit works through people to guide and strengthen us. Writing to someone who has been an inspiration helps recognize the ways faith is lived out. It also encourages gratitude and reminds us that the Holy Spirit moves through others to shape our journey.
Pentecost Year A also calls believers to keep the fire of faith alive. Writing a letter to themselves gives teens a chance to set faith goals and look ahead with hope. The Holy Spirit continues to guide and strengthen them, even when challenges come. When they receive the letter later, it can serve as a reminder to stay committed to their faith. This small act can help them see how God is working in their lives.
Acts of the Apostles: The Spirit Unites the Church
Acts 2 is the heart of Pentecost Year A. The Holy Spirit comes with wind and fire. The disciples speak many languages, and everyone hears the good news. Acts is about the growth of the early Church, guided by the Spirit and open to all nations.
This reading shows that the Spirit brings unity, not uniformity. Different cultures, one message. God’s work now moves through people filled with His Spirit. Acts reminds us that the Church began as a Spirit-led, inclusive mission—and that mission continues today.
Psalm 104: The Spirit Renews Creation
Psalm 104 praises God as Creator and Sustainer. Everything depends on Him. He sends His Spirit, and the world is renewed. This fits the psalm’s theme of ongoing care. God doesn’t create and leave. He stays close, giving life again and again.
For Pentecost Year A, the Spirit’s role in creation connects to its role in the Church. The same Spirit who brought the world to life now renews hearts. Psalm 104 reminds us to give thanks, to trust that God is still at work in all creation, even when we can’t see it.
1 Corinthians: One Spirit, Many Gifts
1 Corinthians 12 reminds us that the Holy Spirit gives different gifts to different people. All come from the same Spirit. The Church is one body with many parts. This matches Paul’s broader message in the letter: unity and love matter more than status or ability.
Pentecost Year A highlights this truth. The Spirit doesn’t make us all the same. It brings us together. Paul reminds us to use our gifts for the good of others, not for ourselves. The Spirit builds the Church by working through each person in a unique way.
The Gospel of John: Peace and Sending
John 20 shows Jesus coming to the disciples after the resurrection. He brings peace, shows His wounds, and breathes the Holy Spirit on them. He gives them the mission to forgive. This scene fits John’s theme of new life through Christ and personal encounter with Him.
Pentecost Year A connects this moment to the Church’s mission. Jesus gives His Spirit not just for comfort, but for action. We are sent with peace, forgiveness, and the Spirit’s breath. John’s Gospel calls us to meet the risen Jesus and carry His love into the world.
Book of Genesis: Tower Talk and Scattered Speech (Vigil Mass)
In Genesis 11, the people try to build a name for themselves without God. The tower of Babel shows their pride and desire for control. Instead of trusting in God’s plan, they rely on their own strength. This story fits with a major theme in Genesis: human failure and God’s response. Again and again, people stray, and God steps in to redirect them.
For Pentecost Year A, this reading shows the contrast between confusion at Babel and unity at Pentecost. At Babel, language divided. At Pentecost, the Spirit united people across languages. Genesis reminds us of the need for God’s guidance. It points to the deep need for healing and unity that only the Spirit can bring.
Book of Exodus: A Mountain Meeting with God (Vigil Mass)
Exodus 19 shows Israel gathering at Mount Sinai to meet God. They hear thunder, see lightning, and witness fire. This moment is part of the larger theme of covenant in Exodus. God chooses Israel and calls them to follow His law. It’s not just about rules—it’s about relationship.
Pentecost Year A connects this dramatic moment with the coming of the Spirit. God’s presence once came in fire on a mountain. Now it comes as tongues of fire on His people. The story of Sinai teaches us to listen, to say yes to God’s invitation, and to live in faith together.
The Book of Ezekiel: Dry Bones and New Life (Vigil Mass)
Ezekiel 37 offers a clear message of hope. The people feel lost, like dry bones. But God promises to raise them up, fill them with His Spirit, and bring them home. This fits the wider theme of restoration in Ezekiel. Even in exile, God remains faithful.
On Pentecost Year A, this passage reminds us of how the Holy Spirit brings life. Just as dry bones rise with God’s breath, the Church begins to live through the Spirit. Ezekiel’s vision is not just for Israel—it points ahead to all who long for renewal and belonging.
The Book of Joel: Spirit for All (Vigil Mass)
Joel 3 shows God’s Spirit poured out on everyone—old and young, male and female, slave and free. The message of Joel is about return and renewal. God invites the people to repent, then promises blessing and new life. The Spirit is not for a few—it is for all.
Pentecost Year A brings Joel’s words to life. The Holy Spirit comes, not just to leaders or prophets, but to all who believe. Joel teaches us to stay awake to God’s work. We are invited to call on His name and live with faith, no matter our place in the world.
The Letter to the Romans: Waiting with Hope (Vigil Mass)
In Romans 8, Paul speaks of longing and waiting. All creation groans for what is to come. This chapter fits the wider message of Romans about salvation and new life. We live in a world still waiting for full healing, but we do not wait alone.
Pentecost Year A reminds us that the Holy Spirit joins us in our waiting. When we don’t know what to say, the Spirit prays for us. Paul wants us to know that hope is not weak. It is real. And the Spirit helps us hold on until God finishes His work.
The Gospel of John: Living Water and the Spirit (Vigil Mass)
In John 7, Jesus speaks of thirst and living water. He points to the Holy Spirit, which would be given after His glorification. This fits with the Gospel of John’s focus on faith and new life through Jesus. He is the source of grace, truth, and the Spirit.
Pentecost Year A shows this promise fulfilled. The Spirit is poured out like living water. Jesus invites us to come to Him, to believe, and to receive. John reminds us that the Spirit is not something we earn—it is a gift for all who thirst for God.
Homilies and Commentaries for Pentecost Year A
Sunday May 24, 2026
Surrender to the Spirit
Bishop Robert Barron reflects on the meaning of Pentecost Year A and the role of the Holy Spirit. He explains that the Spirit is a powerful force, like wind and fire, bringing strength and courage to believers. The Spirit gave the apostles the ability to speak in different languages, showing that the message of Jesus is for all people. Pentecost is the undoing of Babel, where human speech was once divided. The Spirit unites people, gathers them together, and gives them boldness to share the Gospel.
Bishop Barron emphasizes that true power comes from the Holy Spirit, not from worldly influence. He highlights examples like Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa, who changed the world through the Spirit’s power. The Holy Spirit also gives fiery speech, inspiring people to speak boldly about faith. Pentecost Year A reminds believers to open their hearts to the Spirit and trust in its guidance.
Equipped with the Holy Spirit
In his commentary for Pentecost Year A, Jeff Cavins talks about how the Holy Spirit changes lives. He explains that before receiving the Spirit, the disciples were afraid and hiding behind locked doors. But after Pentecost, they were filled with courage and went out to share the message of Jesus. Just like the Jews received the law on Mount Sinai 50 days after Passover, Christians receive the Holy Spirit 50 days after Easter. The Spirit gives the strength and guidance needed to live in true freedom.
Jeff Cavins also connects Pentecost Year A to the sacrament of confirmation. He explains that confirmation is like a personal Pentecost, giving Catholics the power to be bold witnesses for Christ. Every confirmed person has received the Spirit in a special way, not just to be an adult in the Church, but to share their faith without fear. He encourages believers to walk in the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Advocate
This Life Teen reflection for Pentecost Year A tells the story of a young man whose life changes after praying, “Come, Holy Spirit.” He meets Dove, a mysterious figure representing the Holy Spirit, who starts guiding him in everyday choices. At first, he listens only because he wants to impress a girl, but soon he realizes that Dove is helping him become a better person. The Spirit challenges him to make tough decisions, even when it means losing friendships or facing consequences.
Pentecost Year A is a reminder that letting the Holy Spirit in can change everything. The Spirit doesn’t always make life easier, but it gives wisdom and strength to choose what is right. Even when doing the right thing is difficult, the Spirit provides the courage to follow through. A simple prayer can be the first step toward living with integrity and listening to God’s guidance.
A New Wind
Scott Hahn explains that Pentecost Year A fulfills the promises of the Old Testament. The Jewish feast of Pentecost celebrated God giving the law to Moses, but now the Holy Spirit is given to write God’s law on the hearts of believers. The Spirit comes as a mighty wind, just as in creation, bringing new life to the Church. Jesus, the New Adam, breathes the Spirit into the Apostles, just as God breathed life into the first man.
Scott Hahn shows that Pentecost Year A is the beginning of a new creation. Through the Spirit, all people—no matter their background—are made into one body in Christ. The sacraments, especially Baptism and the Eucharist, fill believers with the Spirit and unite them as God’s people. The Church, born of the Spirit, is meant to bring renewal and share God’s life with the world.
Reflection for Pentecost Year A
Pentecost Year A celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church. The readings show how the Spirit gives courage, guidance, and unity to those who follow Jesus. The disciples, once fearful, became bold witnesses after receiving the Spirit. The Spirit also helps believers use their gifts to serve others and share the message of Jesus. These reflections explore the power of the Spirit, the gift of communication, and the constant presence of the Spirit in our lives.
The Power of the Holy Spirit
Pentecost Year A shows how the Holy Spirit changes everything. The disciples were gathered when suddenly a strong wind filled the house. Tongues of fire appeared, and they began speaking in different languages. People from many places heard them and understood in their own tongues. This was the power of the Holy Spirit at work.
The coming of the Spirit gave the disciples courage. Before Pentecost, they were afraid and unsure of what to do. But after receiving the Spirit, they boldly spoke about Jesus. Thousands of people believed that day, and the Church began to grow.
The Spirit also gives gifts to help believers share the message of Jesus. These gifts are not just for personal benefit but for the good of the whole Church. The Spirit helps people teach, lead, serve, and encourage others in faith.
Pentecost Year A reminds us that the Spirit is always with us. The same power that filled the disciples is available to us today. The Spirit gives us strength, wisdom, and courage to live as followers of Jesus.
A Constant Companion
Pentecost Year A reminds us that the Holy Spirit is always present. The Spirit was not just given to the disciples long ago. The Spirit continues to guide, teach, and strengthen all who follow Jesus.
The Spirit does not work in dramatic ways alone. Sometimes, the Spirit speaks in quiet moments, through a feeling of peace or a gentle nudge in the right direction. The Spirit helps us pray, even when we do not know what to say. The Spirit gives us wisdom when we face hard choices.
In the Gospel for Pentecost Year A, Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit on His disciples. This shows that the Spirit is life-giving and always with them. He sends them out with a mission—to share His love and bring forgiveness to others.
As believers, we are never alone. The Holy Spirit is always with us, leading us toward truth and helping us grow in faith. Pentecost Year A encourages us to listen to the Spirit and trust in God’s guidance each day.
The Holy Spirit’s Gift of Communication
Pentecost Year A shows how the Holy Spirit helps us communicate. The disciples spoke in many languages, and people from different places understood them. This was a sign that the message of Jesus was for everyone, not just one group.
The Spirit still helps us share the Good News. Sometimes, this means using words to teach or encourage others. Other times, it means showing kindness, patience, and love. The way we live can speak louder than words.
In the world today, people are often divided by language, culture, or beliefs. The Spirit helps us reach across these barriers. When we listen to others and try to understand them, we show the love of Christ.
Pentecost Year A reminds us that the Gospel is for all people. The Spirit gives us the courage and wisdom to share it in ways that others can understand. When we trust in the Spirit, we can bring the love of Jesus to those around us.
Pentecost Year A reminds us that the Holy Spirit is always with us. The Spirit strengthens, teaches, and leads us in faith. Just as the Spirit helped the early Church, the Spirit helps us live as followers of Jesus. We are called to listen, trust, and share God’s love with others. May we open our hearts to the Spirit and follow where God leads.
Prayer
Holy Spirit, fill our hearts with your wisdom and strength. Help us to listen to your guidance and follow the path of Jesus. Give us courage to share your love with others. Bring peace and unity to your Church. Teach us to trust in you always. Amen.
Reflection Questions for Pentecost Year A
- How does the story of Pentecost Year A show the power of the Holy Spirit?
- In what ways has the Holy Spirit given you courage in your life?
- How can you use your gifts to serve others and strengthen the Church?
- What does it mean for the Holy Spirit to be a constant companion?
- How do you recognize the guidance of the Holy Spirit in your daily life?
- How does the Holy Spirit help overcome divisions among people?
- In what ways can you be more open to the work of the Holy Spirit?
- How can you share the message of Jesus with those around you?
- What does the image of Jesus breathing the Spirit on His disciples teach us?
- How can you pray for a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for Pentecost Year A
Let the fire of Pentecost fill your home or sacred space with this powerful image. Available as a poster, card, canvas print, or home décor item—and also offered as a digital download—this piece makes a bold statement of faith and celebration. Share the Spirit today!
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Music Suggestions for Pentecost Year A
Sunday May 24, 2026
The music selections for Pentecost Year A reflect key themes from the readings. Some songs focus on the Holy Spirit’s power, like the strong wind and fire that came at Pentecost. Others invite the Spirit to fill hearts and bring renewal. Many celebrate the mission of the Church, sending believers out to share the Gospel. Some songs remind us that the Spirit unites people, just as the Apostles spoke in different languages but shared one message. Whether through traditional hymns or modern worship songs, the music helps express the joy, strength, and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
- All Hail, Adored Trinity by Louis Bourgeois & Robert E. Kreutz
- All That We Have Seen by Sarah Hart
- Breathe on Me by John Waller
- Breathe on Me, O Breath of God by Ed Bolduc & Karen Bolduc
- Burning In My Soul by Matt Maher
- Burning In My Soul by Matt Maher
- Come Holy Ghost Creator Blest by Louis Lambillotte
- Come O Holy Spirit (Pentecost Sequence) by Owen Alstott & Randall Debruyn
- Come Holy Spirit by Tom Booth & Robert Feduccia
- Creator Spirit By Whose Aid
- Fall Afresh by Jeremy Riddle
- Forth in the Peace of Christ We Go by Luke D. Rosen
- Holy Spirit by Ken Canedo & Jesse Manibusan
- Holy Spirit Come Now by Jesse Manibusan
- In the Breaking of the Bread by Bob Hurd & Anawim
- Lord Send Out Your Spirit by Ken Canedo
- Love Divine, All Loves Excelling by Rowland H. Pritchard & Charles Wesley
- Many and One by Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart & Dwight Liles
- Oceans by Hillsong United
- Psalm 104: Send Forth Your Spirit O Lord by Christopher Walker
- Sent Forth by God’s Blessing by Omer Westendorf
- Set a Fire by Will Reagan & United Pursuit
- Shine Jesus Shine by Graham Kendrick
- Soul On Fire by Third Day
- Spirit of the Living God by Audrey Assad
- The Church’s One Foundation by Samuel S. Wesley & Samuel J. Stone
- The Spirit Sends Us Forth by Delores Dufner
- Veni Creator Spiritus by Janèt Sullivan Whitaker
- Wildfires by Francis Cabildo
- With One Voice by Ricky Manalo
Music directors and musicians can use these selections to bring the themes of Pentecost Year A to life in their communities. These songs can inspire people to welcome the Holy Spirit and live with faith. Try them in your parish or worship setting, and share your own favorite songs in the comments.
Questions and Answers for Pentecost Year A
What date is Pentecost Year A?
The next date is Sunday May 24, 2026.
For other years see the links below:
Pentecost Year B
Pentecost Year C
What are the Mass readings for Pentecost Year A?
For the vigil Mass:
First Reading – Genesis 11:1-9: The Confusion of Language at Babel
Alternate First Reading – Exodus 19:3-8a, 16-20b: God’s Call to the Israelites at Sinai
Alternate First Reading – Ezekiel 37:1-14: The Valley of Dry Bones and the Promise of Restoration
Alternate First Reading – Joel 3:1-5: The Promise of the Outpouring of the Spirit
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 104: The Lord Who Renews the Earth
Second Reading – Romans 8:22-27: The Spirit’s Intercession for Us
Gospel – John 7:37-39: Jesus Offers Living Water to the Thirsty
For Mass during the day on Sunday May 24, 2026:
First reading – Acts 2:1-11: Descent of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 104: God’s Majestic Creation and Providence
Second reading – 1 Corinthians 12:3B-7, 12-13: The Unity and Diversity of the Body of Christ Through the Holy Spirit
Gospel – John 20:19-23: Jesus Appears to the Disciples and Sends the Holy Spirit
What is Pentecost?
Pentecost is the day the Holy Spirit came to the Apostles. It is also called the birthday of the Church because the Apostles began sharing Jesus’ message with the world.
Why does the Holy Spirit come as wind and fire?
Wind and fire show the power of the Holy Spirit. Wind moves things and cannot be controlled, and fire gives light and strength.
Why were the Apostles afraid before Pentecost?
They were afraid because Jesus was no longer with them, and they did not know what to do. When the Holy Spirit came, they had courage and started teaching about Jesus.
What does Pentecost Year A teach about the Holy Spirit?
Pentecost Year A shows that the Holy Spirit gives wisdom, courage, and unity. The Spirit helps people follow Jesus and share his love with others.
Why did people from different places understand the Apostles?
The Holy Spirit made it possible for everyone to hear the message in their own language. This showed that Jesus’ message was for all people, not just one group.
How is Pentecost connected to Baptism and Confirmation?
Baptism gives new life through the Holy Spirit, and Confirmation strengthens that gift. Pentecost reminds us that the Spirit helps us live our faith every day.
What does the second reading of Pentecost Year A teach about the Church?
It teaches that the Church is like a body with many parts. Everyone has different gifts, but the Holy Spirit unites all believers as one.
What does the Gospel reading of Pentecost Year A show about Jesus?
It shows Jesus giving peace to his disciples and sending them out to forgive sins. He breathes the Holy Spirit on them, giving them strength for their mission.
How does Pentecost help us in daily life?
Pentecost reminds us to listen to the Holy Spirit. The Spirit helps us make good choices, be strong in faith, and share kindness with others.
What is the mission of the Church after Pentecost?
The mission of the Church is to spread the message of Jesus. The Holy Spirit gives believers the courage and wisdom to do this.
How can someone invite the Holy Spirit into their life?
A simple prayer asking for guidance is a good start. The Holy Spirit works in quiet ways, helping people grow in faith and make good decisions.
Why is Pentecost important for all Christians?
Pentecost is important because it reminds Christians that the Holy Spirit is always with them. The Spirit gives strength, guidance, and unity to all who follow Jesus.
The Spirit Brings New Life
Pentecost Year A celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit. The disciples were gathered when a strong wind filled the house, and tongues of fire appeared over them. They began to speak in different languages, and people from many places understood them. This showed that the Spirit brings unity and gives strength to share the message of Jesus.
The readings for Pentecost Year A remind us that the Spirit has always been at work. In the Old Testament, the Spirit brings life to dry bones and renews the earth. Jesus promises living water to those who believe in Him, which means the gift of the Spirit. After His resurrection, He breathes on His disciples, giving them the Spirit and sending them out to forgive sins.
Pentecost Year A also teaches about the mission of the Church. The Spirit gives gifts to help believers serve others. The Church is one body, made up of many people, all guided by the same Spirit. Through the Spirit, Christians find strength, purpose, and the courage to follow Jesus.
Your Turn
Pentecost Year A reminds us of the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit. The readings show how the Spirit unites people, gives them strength, and leads them to truth. This is a time to think about how the Spirit is working in your life. How has the Spirit helped you grow in faith or given you strength in hard times?
Take a moment to read the passages for Pentecost Year A. Think about what stands out to you and how the message speaks to your life. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Your words might encourage someone else on their faith journey.
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