(a) After the ascension of Jesus, the apostles gathered together at a place in Jerusalem. As they were praying together, the Holy Spirit came down upon them. There came a sound of wind from heaven, filling the house where they were. The sound was followed by tongues of fire appearing and resting on their heads. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and started speaking in tongues as the spirit gave them utterance. This happened on the Pentecost day. The apostles then became bold and began to testify and proclaim the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Those who were in Jerusalem on that day for the feast of Pentecost were surprised when they heard the apostles speaking in their various native tongues. Some asked whether the apostles were Galileans or not as they understood what they were saying very clearly. Some of those who heard what the apostles were saying mocked and accused them of drunkenness, but some devout men among them marvelled and gave thanks to God.

(b) The significance of the gift of the Holy Spirit to the church include:
(i) It brought about the events that marked the beginning of the church.
(ii) Many people were converted and the number of the apostles increased.
(iii) It made the disciples to be bold and they acquired healing power. They were able to proclaim the death and resurrection of Jesus.