TRIMONT — In the past there was an old tradition to have a vigil or a special evening service for special church holidays such as Christmas, Easter and Pentecost.

The Circle of Faith parishes, which include First Lutheran Church in Trimont, Trinity Lutheran Church in Welcome, Waverly Lutheran Church north of Welcome and St. Peter Lutheran Church in Ceylon, will have a traditional vigil for Pentecost beginning 6 p.m. Saturday, May 27, at First Lutheran in Trimont. The special service will be outdoors, weather permitting, with lawn chairs and hotdogs to roast and smores to be made, by the campfire in the church parking lot.

Pastor Kelly France explained the traditional Pentecost Vigil as a “celebration of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.” The beginning of what we consider to be the church. Christ ascended and we are tasked, as people of faith, to live out the mission of God. The celebration of vigils is a practice that dates back to the very early history of the Church and they were an act of hope and preparation for the festival day. The story of Pentecost in the book of Acts after the resurrection tells about the disciples who had seen the risen Lord but were not ready to work in the world. On the festival day of Pentecost the Holy Spirit descended on them like a rush of wind, like a fire or a

dove and they were compelled to witness and work in the world.

The Circle of Faith parishioners hope to gather and reflect on the story of their faith and prepare for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in their lives and their church. They plan to share stories of their faith and calling and hope for the special guidance from the Spirit to go out into the community with love and caring. They will also share fellowship with each other.

The community is welcome to join them at the vigil and help their church to be present in the community. This special service will be held this weekend and take the place of the usual Sunday services in the Circle of Faith parishes.