The Orthodox Christians on June 23 observe Pentecost, which commemorates the descent of the Holy Ghost upon the disciples of Jesus Christ. It is also known as Whitsunday, or Whit Sunday. Pentecost became not only a commemoration of the Holy Spirit’s visit but also marks the birth of the Christian Church, IPN reports.

According to Petru Buburuz, bishop of the Chisinau Church “Saints Apostles Petru and Pavel”, branches of walnut tree and linden tree are put in churches on Pentecost. He urged the Christians to go to church on this day to obtain power and internal harmony with the descent of the Holy Ghost.

As recorded in the Bible, it was on the 50th day after Easter that the apostles were praying together and the Holy Spirit descended on them. They received the “gift of tongues” – the ability to speak in other languages – and immediately began to preach about Jesus Christ to Jewish people from all over the world.

According to church tradition, Pentecost is always about seven weeks after Easter Sunday, or 50 days after Easter, including Easter Day. In many parts of the world, Pentecost has become a traditional day for baptisms to take place. On this day, many people enjoy family gatherings, picnics, or outings to the country. Pentecost is called “the Green Holiday”.