Pentecost: A Week of Encounter

June 8 – 13

Pentecost marks the moment the Spirit of God descended upon Jesus’ followers, fulfilling a promise he made before his death: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you” (Acts 1:8). It was a moment when barriers fell, when people from every background understood one another, and a diverse crowd was filled with God’s presence and sent out to share it.

At Oaks, we follow the rhythms of the Church calendar as a way to live more deeply into the story of Jesus. Some of us grew up with these traditions. Others are just beginning to explore them. Wherever you find yourself, Pentecost offers a fresh invitation—not to reenact the past, but to become present to what the Spirit is doing now.

This year, we are observing Pentecost in a whole new way while expecting to hear from a God still speaking. From Sunday, June 8 through Friday, June 13, our entire gathering space will become a public prayer room, open to all who long to listen, reflect, and be renewed.

Sunday, June 8 – Pentecost Gatherings

Instead of our usual Sunday service, we will host three RSVP-only gatherings at: 10:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. Each gathering (80 person capacity) will include:

  • Worship

  • A short homily

  • Guided moments of prayer led by our team

  • Communion

Register for the gatherings below.

June 9 – 13 – Public Prayer Room

The prayer room will remain open throughout the week for anyone who wants to come in and engage at their own pace. Whether you come for ten minutes or two hours, you are welcome to move through the space quietly, reflectively, or together with others.

You’ll find:

  • Creative prayer stations (interactive spaces to reflect, respond, and engage with Scripture)

  • Visio divina art installations (imaginative prayer through visual reflection)

  • Communal prayer times each day at 7 a.m., 12 p.m., and 7 p.m.

Come on your own, bring a friend, or walk through with your community group or small circle. Children ages 5 and up will find stations created just for them. Pastoral prayer will also be available during designated hours.

Like the first disciples gathered in the upper room, we are making space to listen—and to respond with our whole selves: mind, body, and spirit.

Pentecost was not the end of waiting, but the beginning of encounter. It is proof that God still draws near and speaks through ordinary lives, making bold things possible.