LitURgical Learning
The liturgical calendar is a schedule used by many Christian churches to organize and commemorate the key events in the life of Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the saints. It guides the rhythm of worship, prayer, and celebration throughout the year, marking seasons, feasts, and fasts.
Advent
(4 weeks before Christmas)
A season of preparation and anticipation for the coming of Christ. It starts the liturgical year.
Christmas
(December 25 and the following 12 days)
Celebrates the birth of Jesus.
Epiphany
(January 6)
Commemorates the visit of the Magi to the Christ child and the revelation of Jesus to the Gentiles.
Ordinary Time
(Two periods: after Epiphany and after Pentecost)
Focuses on Jesus’ ministry and teachings.
Lent
(40 days before Easter, starting on Ash Wednesday)
A season of penance, reflection, and fasting leading up to Easter.
Holy Week
(The week leading up to Easter)
Includes Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday, marking the final days of Jesus' life.
Easter
(Begins on Easter Sunday)
Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. This season lasts 50 days, ending on Pentecost.
Pentecost
(50 days after Easter)
Commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles.
Liturgical colors
Symbolizing different moods and themes:
Purple/Violet: Penitence (Advent and Lent)
White/Gold: Celebration (Christmas, Easter)
Green: Growth and life (Ordinary Time)
Red: Holy Spirit and martyrs (Pentecost, feast days of martyrs)
Black (in some traditions): Mourning (Good Friday, All Souls' Day)
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