Seasons of the Church

Seasons of the Church

Understanding the Liturgical Seasons

Below are the commonly used colors in the Liturgical Year and their significance.

White

A Time for Celebrating


The color white is used in the church at times of celebration, namely Christmas and Easter, but also includes other Holy Days and select Feast Days

Green

Ordinary Time


The color green marks a time between the Lent/Easter and Advent/Christmas seasons where we learn about the life of Christ through the gospel readings.

Purple

A Time for Reflection and Alms Giving



The color purple marks the seasons of Advent and Lent.  In Advent we await the coming of Jesus at Christmas, while in Lent we make sacrifices and offerings in preparation for Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

Red

Embodies the Holy Spirit


The color Red represents the Holy Spirit and martyrs and is used for Good Friday, Pentecost Sunday and Feast Days of Martyr Saints

Other liturgical colors include Rose representing a period of joyfulness on the 3rd Sunday of Advent and 4th Sunday of Lent, Black used for funerals, and Gold or Silver for solemn occasions.

To learn more about the Liturgical Year & Calendar, click on the button below.

Liturgical Year & Calendar
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