Whit Monday in the Central African Republic
Whit Monday follows Pentecost Sunday in the Central African Republic’s holiday calendar. A United States government report recorded the Monday after Pentecost among the national holidays observed by the government, while a Vatican Radio account documents a church observance in Bangui in 2014.[1][2]
Holiday status and local context
A United States government report recorded the Monday after Pentecost as a national holiday observed by the Central African Republic’s government.[1]
An older government report records Whit Monday as a national holiday; check the current official calendar for the year you need.[1]
Pentecost and its meaning
Pentecost is a Christian feast commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus’ disciples. The name refers to the fiftieth day after Easter; Whit Monday is the following Monday in calendars that observe it. This links the Central African Republic date to the changing Easter calendar, rather than to a fixed day of the month.[3]
A documented observance in Bangui
A Vatican Radio report describes Pentecost celebrations in the Archdiocese of Bangui in 2014. It records a three-day programme connected with the Congregation of the Holy Spirit, including a concert involving parish choirs, confirmations in four parishes, and a Monday mass at the Spiritans’ provincial house where members of a lay fraternity made commitments.[2]
Other dioceses celebrated Pentecost according to their own programmes.[2]
Practical planning
The holiday calendar places Whit Monday on a Monday and its date changes with Easter. For residents and visitors, check directly with the relevant public office, bank, shop, school or transport service before making plans.[1]
Frequently asked questions
Is Whit Monday a public holiday in the Central African Republic?
A United States government report recorded the Monday after Pentecost as a national holiday observed by the government.[1]
When does Whit Monday fall?
It is the Monday after Pentecost Sunday, so its date changes each year with Easter. Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus’ disciples.[3]
What happens in Bangui on Whit Monday?
A Vatican Radio report documents a mass at the Spiritans’ provincial house in Bangui on Whit Monday in 2014. That is a historical example, not a confirmed annual programme.[2]
Are offices and shops closed?
Check current opening arrangements with the specific office, bank, shop, school or transport service before travelling.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Whit Monday in Central African Republic:
- République centrafricaine 2- U.S. Department of State
- CENTRAFRIQUE: Les festivités de la pentecôte- Vatican Radio
- 1911 Encyclopædia Britannica/Whitsunday- Encyclopædia Britannica, reproduced by Wikisource