The diocesan celebration on the occasion of the Vigil of Pentecost this year will be held on Saturday, in Vjal Kottoner, Fgura, at 8pm.

The solemnity of Pentecost is a reminder of the occasion when the Church, in its beginning, received the gift of the Holy Spirit and reached out to preach the Gospel.

The Church calls on Christians to unite, on the occasion of the Pentecost, to thank God for the continued renewal of the Church, through the Holy Spirit.

This year’s theme is “Together encouraged by the Holy Spirit”.

At the centre of this year’s celebration there will be representations by the lay associations and movements regarding the seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit, in the light of their charisma.

The celebration has been given this form in view of the fact that Pope Benedict XVI has invited lay associations and movements to Rome for the Vigil of Pentecost.

The programme for the Vigil of Pentecost starts at 7.30pm with an animation phase.

The celebration itself, which will be led by Archbishop Mgr Joseph Mercieca, starts at 8pm.

There will not be a Mass celebration during this activity.