The first Christian Pentecost had two parts. The Spirit was poured out on 120 disciples of Jesus in an upper room at 9AM on a Sunday (Acts 1:14, 15; 2:15). Later that day, the Spirit was received by 3,000 people in the streets of Jerusalem (Acts 2:41). Not only does "charity begin at home," but often Pentecost begins at home, or at least in an upper room. Then it hits the streets, only to return to the home, as those filled with the Spirit devote themselves to the communal life (Acts 2:42).

For example, Pentecost began at home for Cornelius and his household (Acts 10:24ff), and then it was extended to the ends of the earth. Moreover, Pentecost began for Apollos at the home of Priscilla and Aquila (Acts 18:26). Then Apollos took the gospel in the power of the Spirit to Achaia (Acts 18:27). St. Paul did Pentecost in the opposite direction. He started on the street (Acts 9:3) and continued in the home of Judas on Straight Street (Acts 9:11ff) only to take Pentecost back out into the streets.

Pentecost is home-work and road-work. Receive the Holy Spirit at home and in the streets. Come, Holy Spirit!

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 21, 2014

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