Pentecost — the apostles in a semicircle with tongues of fire, the Holy Spirit descending

Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Public Domain

The Descent of the Holy Spirit (Pentecost)

Πεντηκοστή

Feasts
14th century
Byzantine

Celebrated: 50 days after Pascha

About This Icon

The Twelve Apostles are seated in a semicircle, with tongues of fire above their heads. At the bottom of the icon, a figure often labeled 'Kosmos' (the world) stands in darkness, holding a cloth with twelve scrolls — representing the apostolic preaching going out to all nations.

This icon represents the birthday of the Church and the beginning of the Church's mission to the world.

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