The Spirit of Missions

Yesterday the church where I am a member had a memorable celebration of Pentecost Sunday. It was the culmination of a year of special focus on the person and work of the Holy Spirit. Our pastor won a grant from the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship and received a sabbatical of four months from his regular duties last year to concentrate on developing a series of worship services, sermons, and music that would enable us to become more alive to the Spirit. A great deal of planning and effort went into this on the part of many people.

Each year the connection of Pentecost and missions is renewed through a variety of resources and methods. The staff at Christian Reformed World Missions produces a number of materials. However, we hope that local churches and mission committees are also exercising their creativity in inspiring commitment to the mission of God by recognizing that it is the coming of His Spirit that empowers missions. What did your church do this year for Pentecost?