Trinity Sunday is celebrated on the first Sunday after Pentecost, (June 4, in 2023) reminding us of the three different ways we experience the one God whom we worship. We worship God the Father (Creator); we worship Jesus (Redeemer) who experienced the life of a human; and we worship the way that God works within us — the Holy Spirit (Comforter). Keep in mind the word comfort means – with strength.
The word ‘trinity’ does not appear in scripture, but the concept was finalized at the First Council of Nicaea in 325 CE after years of debate. It was an attempt to understand and articulate the relationship between God, Jesus, and experiences of the Spirit.
The Old Testament can be interpreted as referring to the Trinity through God’s word (Psalm 33:6), Spirit (Isaiah 61:1), Wisdom (Proverbs 9:1), and through stories, such as the appearance of the three men to Abraham.
Perhaps this simple Prayer for Illumination from faithforward.org can be something you memorize and keep close to your heart.
Be still and know that God is here.
Be still and know that God is near.
Be still and know that God is here.
Kim Snodgrass is Assistant to the Bishop for Christian Formation.
