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Whit Sunday, also known as Pentecost, is a significant Christian holiday celebrated in Norway and many other countries around the world. It falls on the seventh Sunday after Easter and commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ, as described in the New Testament's Acts of the Apostles.
The roots of Whit Sunday go back to Jewish tradition, where Shavuot, or the Feast of Weeks, was celebrated seven weeks after Passover. For Christians, this day marks the birth of the Church when the Holy Spirit empowered Christ's disciples to speak in tongues and spread his teachings.
In Norway, like in many other Christian nations, Whit Sunday became an official holiday. Historically, it has been a day for baptisms and confirmations within Norwegian churches. Churches are often decorated with red, symbolizing the fire of the Holy Spirit.
On Whit Sunday (Norwegian: "pinse"), Norwegians typically attend church services where sermons reflect on the importance of the Holy Spirit in Christian faith. This day is part of a long weekend since both Whit Sunday and Whit Monday (the following day) are public holidays.
While Norway has become more secular over time with less emphasis on religious practices, many people still use this opportunity to enjoy springtime weather by engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking or spending time at their cabins. Family gatherings and communal meals also feature during this period as people relish in an extended weekend away from work.
Overall, while religious observance may not be as widespread as it once was, Whit Sunday remains part of Norway's cultural heritage and calendar of public holidays.