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Pentecost: a repertoire of fire

Liturgical year · 29 April 2026 · Pierre-Arnaud Destremau

Fifty days after Easter, Pentecost brings the Easter season to a radiant close. The repertoire breathes the wind, the flame and the missionary impulse.

The breath and the flame

Veni Creator, the sequence “Veni Sancte Spiritus”, sending hymns: Pentecost is an ardent feast. Dare to use light and movement.

The moments

Sequence

The sequence of the day is a treasure: have it sung, alternating between choir and congregation.

Communion

A hymn that joins the Spirit and the unity of the body.

Sending

Mission! A hymn turned towards the world closes the Easter season.

A reminder: only distribute scores or lyrics for works in the public domain, your own compositions, or duly authorised works.

Do you need a hymn written for your celebration? Write to me.

Frequently asked questions

Which hymns for Pentecost?

The Holy Spirit is the great guest: Veni Creator Spiritus (Gregorian), Veni Sancte Spiritus (the obligatory sequence), Viens Esprit Saint, Esprit Saint, viens. The sequence Veni Sancte Spiritus, set between the second reading and the Gospel, is one of the most beautiful in sacred music.

Is the Veni Creator obligatory at Pentecost?

Not strictly obligatory at Mass, but traditional. It is, however, prescribed for the opening of retreats, vows, ordinations and all solemn beginnings. At Pentecost it ideally accompanies the entrance procession.

What is the difference between Veni Creator and Veni Sancte Spiritus?

Veni Creator is a hymn (9th century, attributed to Raban Maur) that invokes the creator Spirit. Veni Sancte Spiritus is the sequence (13th century) proper to the day of Pentecost. The first is used throughout the year; the second is strictly tied to the day.

Hymns related to this article

The hymns from the albums Vivant and Ephata most relevant to this theme.

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