Partying at Pentecost

Soon after the arrival of The Ven. Dr. Lynne McNaughton as priest of St. Clement’s, it became obvious that Pentecost is her favourite celebration of the year. We all look forward to it but this Pentecost Sunday was exceptional.  

The congregation, decked out in red, was handed red and orange “flames” to wave as we circled the church, stomping, singing and chanting. Not to be left out, Lynne, our deacon Elizabeth and Music Director Lynley Lewis wore ‘party hats’ decorated with red and silver streamers.  

The children stayed for the duration of the service: their task was to jump and wave their ‘flames’, balloons or whirly-gigs during the readings to alert the congregation to any mention of the Spirit. Of course, during the reading of Ezekiel 37 (The valley of Dry Bones) we had a spirited singing of “Dem bones, dem bones”, led by Lynne. During the prayers, votive candles in red holders were lit.  

The closing song “She comes sailing on the wind” sent us all out into the world, spirit- filled and joyful.