The Creator has built a rhythm of time into the universe to enliven and revitalize our connection to God. Worshipping God is to be at the very centre of the calendar. Consider this, on the fourth day of creation, God created two great lights, the sun and the moon, to separate day and night (Genesis 1:14).
“And God said, ‘Let there be lights [sun and moon] in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years.”
Notice that the sun and moon had two purposes. Their first purpose was to separate the day from the night, which is the separation of work from rest: work during the day and at night. But commerce and recreation are not all of life. They are a significant and necessary part of life. We are created to rest, work, and play, but we are also made to pray. This leads us to the sun and moon’s second purpose.
The sun and moon also serve as “signs to mark seasons and days and years” (Genesis 1:14). The word “season” is commonly used to mark a time of the year, like winter, spring, summer, or fall. However, another possible meaning emerges when the Bible is allowed to be interpreted. Leviticus 23 is entirely devoted to the subject of “seasons.” This is not obvious in our English Bibles because the Hebrew word translated as “seasons” in Genesis 1:14 is translated as “feasts” in Leviticus 23. Leviticus 23 describes the appointed days when all of Israel would come and worship God in a particular way. The sun, moon, and stars marked the calendar, but the calendar itself was to revolve around God's worship.
One was a civic calendar used for business and commerce, much like companies, governments, and other organizations have a fiscal year that differs from the regular calendar, and the other was the calendar of feasts, fasts, and worship.
These two calendars gave both work and worship life a rhythm. The seasons also have a rhythm.
The rhythm of the seasons set the rhythm for Israel’s work life. There was a time for planting, a time for harvesting, a time for selling, and a time for resting – and then the cycle started all over again – rhythm.
Just as there was a rhythm to Israel’s work, there was a rhythm to their worship. The same sun and moon that marked the days and the nights for the rhythm of work marked the sacred seasons for the rhythm of prayer.
Just as there were two calendars for Israel, a secular calendar setting the rhythm of work and a sacred calendar setting the rhythm of worship, there are two calendars for the Church: a secular calendar (January – December) and a sacred calendar. One way to cultivate spiritual growth is to put Christ at the centre of time by observing the Christian Calendar.
The rest of this article breaks down the Christian Calendar. For each season, we will examine its place on the calendar, its meaning, and some spiritual practices you can explore.
Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and continues until December 24, marking the start of the liturgical. It spans four weeks, offering a time for solemn reflection and joyful expectation. The liturgical colour for Advent is traditionally purple or blue, symbolizing penitence and royalty. On the third Sunday, Gaudete Sunday, a rose colour may signify joy and the nearing celebration of Christ’s birth.
Advent, from the Latin adventus meaning "coming," is a season of preparation for the celebration of Christ's birth and the anticipation of his return as King. Biblically, Advent emphasizes hope, waiting, repentance, and fulfilling God’s promises. Scriptures central to the season include prophecies of the Messiah, and New Testament passages about Christ’s second coming. These texts invite us to reflect on God’s faithfulness in the past and trust in His promises for the future.
To make Advent spiritually meaningful, you can set aside daily time for prayer, Scripture reading, and reflection on God’s promises. Practices like simplicity and fasting help shift focus from material distractions to spiritual preparation. Acts of kindness and reconciliation can prepare hearts for Christ’s coming. Advent calendars or Jesse Trees are often used to trace salvation history and deepen understanding of God’s work in the world, fostering a sense of awe and gratitude for the gift of Christ. And of course, the Advent wreath is traditionally lit during this time.
Christmas is celebrated annually on December 25, marking the culmination of the Advent season and the beginning of the Christmas season. This season, also known as Christmastide, traditionally lasts twelve days, ending with the Feast of Epiphany on January 6. The liturgical colour for Christmas is white or gold, symbolizing purity, joy, and the light of Christ.
Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the incarnation of God who came to dwell among humanity. It is a joyful recognition of the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and God’s profound love in sending His Son to save the world. Biblically, the nativity story found in Matthew 1–2 and Luke 2 emphasizes themes of humility, hope, and peace as Christ enters the world in a manger, bringing light to the darkness. He came to live through every phase of human living as one of us, yet in full communion with His Father. He exchanges His perfect life with ours so that we too can be children of the Father and live in fellowship with Him.
To make Christmas spiritually meaningful, we must focus on the incarnation of Christ and its implications for their lives. Prayer and reflection on the nativity story deepen our gratitude for God’s love and grace. Acts of generosity and kindness, especially toward the less fortunate, embody the spirit of Christ’s coming. Meditating on light and hope can inspire believers to share Christ’s light with the world. Feasting with traditional dishes, exchanging gifts, and watching children act out the Christmas story in pageants are beautiful ways to express the joyful character of this season.
Epiphany is celebrated on January 6, concluding the twelve days of Christmas. The liturgical colour is white or gold, symbolizing joy and light. Because Epiphany is one of the seven principal feasts of the Church and often falls on a weekday, it is common to transfer its celebration to the nearest Sunday, usually the second Sunday after Christmas.
The Feast of Epiphany commemorates the revelation of Jesus Christ as the Messiah to the Gentiles, symbolized by the visit of the Magi to the Christ child (Matthew 2:1-12). It also celebrates other manifestations of Christ’s divinity, including his baptism and the miracle at Cana. Epiphany underscores the universal scope of God’s salvation, emphasizing that Christ came for all people, regardless of race or nation.
To make Epiphany spiritually meaningful, we can think about the universal reach of God’s salvation and consider how we might share Christ’s light with others. Prayer and meditation on the story of the Magi invite gratitude for the ways God reveals Himself to all nations. Participating in acts of service and hospitality honours the inclusiveness of Christ’s mission.
Ordinary Time after Epiphany begins the Sunday following January 6. It continues until Ash Wednesday, marking the start of Lent. The liturgical colour is green, symbolizing growth, renewal, and the vitality of Christian life. Ordinary Time is the part of the liturgical year that falls outside the major seasons of Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter.
Ordinary time is not so named because these Sundays are bland compared to the others but because the Sundays are named sequentially. Hence, the Sundays after Epiphany are called the First Sunday after Epiphany, the Second Sunday after Epiphany, and so on. The same will be true with the second block of ordinary time after Trinity Sunday. Those Sundays are the First Sunday after Trinity, the Second Sunday after Trinity, etc.
Ordinary Time after Epiphany focuses on Jesus's life and ministry, particularly his teachings, miracles, and the revelation of his identity as the Son of God. It is a time for growth and reflection, emphasizing the ongoing call to discipleship and the transformation that comes from living in Christ. Biblically, this period includes accounts such as Jesus calling his disciples, preaching the Sermon on the Mount, and performing miracles demonstrating God's kingdom.
Specific feasts mark less this season but focus on regular worship and engagement with Christ's life. The Gospel readings consider Jesus' public ministry. At Ascension, we often use the Sundays after Epiphany for special sermon series rather than preaching from the appointed readings.
To make Ordinary Time spiritually meaningful, we should focus on steady, daily faith growth. Practices such as regular prayer, Scripture study, and participation in worship help cultivate a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting on Jesus’ ministry can inspire a renewed commitment to following his example in love, service, and humility. Ordinary Time is also an opportunity to discern one’s vocation within the Church's broader mission and to find ways to live out the call to discipleship in ordinary, everyday moments.
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and lasts 40 days, excluding Sundays, ending on Holy Saturday. Ash Wednesday is one of the Church's two obligatory fast days (the other is Good Friday). On Ash Wednesday, we have ash placed on our forehead in the shape of a cross, with the words, “Dust you are. To dust you shall return.” These somber words remind us of our mortality and call us to self-reflection for Lent.
The liturgical colour is purple, symbolizing penitence and preparation. On Laetare Sunday, the fourth Sunday of Lent, a rose colour may signify a moment of joy within the solemn season.
Lent is a season of repentance, self-examination, and preparation for the celebration of Easter. Rooted in Jesus’ 40 days of fasting in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11), Lent invites believers to reflect on their need for God’s grace and to turn away from sin. It is a time to grow in holiness through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, preparing spiritually for the joy of the resurrection.
To make Lent spiritually meaningful, we should adopt a posture of humility and self-denial. Daily prayer, Scripture reading, and meditating on Christ’s passion and sacrifice are central. Fasting fosters discipline and clarity, while generosity and reconciliation help align hearts with God’s love and mercy.
Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday and culminates on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter. The liturgical colours vary: red for Palm Sunday and Good Friday, white for Maundy Thursday, and no colour on Holy Saturday. These colours reflect the shifts between celebration, sacrifice, and solemnity.
Palm Sunday: Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, commemorating Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where crowds welcomed him with palm branches and shouts of "Hosanna."
Maundy Thursday commemorates Jesus' Last Supper with his disciples, the institution of the Eucharist, and his act of servant leadership in washing their feet.
Good Friday: Good Friday solemnly commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, reflecting on his sacrifice for the redemption of humanity.
Holy Saturday: Holy Saturday is a day of quiet reflection, marking the time Jesus' body lay in the tomb, as Christians await the joy of Easter resurrection.
Holy Week commemorates the final days of Jesus’ earthly ministry, including his passion, death, and burial. It is a time to walk with Christ through his suffering and prepare for the hope of the resurrection. Key biblical events include the triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, the agony in the garden, and the crucifixion.
We can deepen our faith during Holy Week by meditating on the Gospels' Passion narratives, attending services, and participating in acts of service and sacrifice. Reflecting on Christ’s humility and love can inspire more profound devotion and gratitude.
Palm Sunday: Palm Sunday is marked by processions with palm branches, the reading of the Passion narrative, and hymns celebrating Jesus' entry into Jerusalem.
Maundy Thursday: Maundy Thursday is traditionally celebrated with a solemn Eucharist, the washing of feet to recall Jesus' act of humility, and the stripping of the altar to signify the approaching Passion. To date, Ascension has not celebrated Maundy Thursday with a service, but this would be a beautiful addition to our worship in the future.
Good Friday: Good Friday is observed in various ways: with meditative services, veneration of the cross, Scripture readings, and prayers reflecting on the suffering and death of Christ. Our practice at Ascension is to host and come and go Stations of the Cross.
Holy Saturday: Holy Saturday is typically observed with a quiet vigil, and in the evening, the Easter Vigil begins with the lighting of the Paschal candle, Scripture readings, and the first proclamation of the Resurrection. Ascension does not have a service, but like Maundy Thursday, this would be a meaningful addition to our worship schedule in the future.
Easter Sunday is the first day of the Easter season, which lasts 50 days and concludes with Pentecost. The liturgical colour is white or gold, symbolizing joy, purity, and triumph.
Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus, the cornerstone of our faith. It is a proclamation of victory over sin and death, offering new life to all who believe (1 Corinthians 15:20-22).
We are encouraged to reflect on the resurrection and its transformative power to make Easter spiritually meaningful. Daily prayers of thanksgiving, meditating on Jesus's post-resurrection appearances, and sharing the good news with others embody the spirit of Easter.
Pentecost is celebrated 50 days after Easter Sunday, concluding the Easter season. The liturgical colour is red, symbolizing the fire of the Holy Spirit and the apostles’ zeal.
Pentecost celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, empowering them to proclaim the Gospel (Acts 2:1-4). It marks the birth of the Church and the fulfillment of Christ’s promise to send the Advocate. Pentecost emphasizes themes of empowerment, unity, and the ongoing work of the Spirit in the world.
To make Pentecost spiritually meaningful, believers can pray for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Reflecting on the Spirit’s gifts and fruit (Galatians 5:22-23) can inspire deeper faith and service. Acts of reconciliation, unity, and bold witness reflect the Spirit’s work in the Church and the world.
Trinity Sunday is observed on the first Sunday after Pentecost, marking the transition into the second half of the liturgical year. The liturgical colour is white, symbolizing purity, holiness, and God's glory.
Trinity Sunday celebrates the mystery of the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—as the foundation of the Christian faith. It invites believers to reflect on God’s triune nature, the unity of the three Persons, and the relational love that flows within the Trinity. This feast emphasizes God’s self-revelation and His presence in creation, redemption, and sanctification.
To make Trinity Sunday spiritually meaningful, we can meditate on Scriptures that reveal the Trinity, such as John 14–16. Praying the doxology or using Trinitarian prayers fosters awe and gratitude for God’s relational love. Reflecting on the unity within the Trinity can inspire greater unity and love in relationships and communities.
Ordinary Time begins the Sunday after Trinity Sunday and lasts until the end of the liturgical year. The liturgical colour is green, symbolizing life, growth, and renewal in the faith. This season encompasses several significant feasts, including All Saints on November 1 and Christ the King, the last Sunday of the liturgical year.
Ordinary Time after Trinity is a season of growth and reflection, focusing on living out the teachings of Christ in daily life. It emphasizes discipleship, building the kingdom of God, and deepening faith and virtue. Biblically, this period explores Jesus' parables, miracles, and ethical teachings, inviting believers to embody His love and mission.
To make this season spiritually meaningful, we can commit to daily Scripture reading, focusing on the teachings and parables of Jesus. Prayers for guidance in living out discipleship and acts of kindness and service help deepen faith and foster spiritual growth. Observing the Feast of the Holy Cross can inspire gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice, while Christ the King Sunday offers a chance to reflect on Jesus’ lordship and renew hope in His coming kingdom.
FIXED
Christmas Day, December 25
The Epiphany January 6
All Saints’ Day November 1
MOVABLE
Easter Sunday following the first full moon of Spring
Ascension Day 40 days after Easter
Day of Pentecost 50 days after Easter
Trinity Sunday Sunday after Pentecost
ADVENT
Advent 1 Fourth Sunday before Christmas
Advent 2
Advent 3
Advent 4
Christmas Eve
CHRISTMAS
First Sunday of Christmas
Second Sunday of Christmas
EPIPHANY January 6
ORDINARY TIME AFTER EPIPHNAY
Epiphany 1
Epiphany 2
Epiphany 3
Epiphany 4
Epiphany 5
Epiphany 6
Epiphany 7
Epiphany 8
Epiphany 9
Last Sunday of Epiphany Transfiguration
LENT
Ash Wednesday Forty days before Easter
Lent 1
Lent 2
Lent 3
Lent 4
Lent 5
HOLY WEEK
Palm Sunday
Monday of Holy Week
Tuesday of Holy Week
Wednesday of Holy Week
Maundy Thursday
Good Friday
Easter Vigil The night before Easter
EASTER
Easter Day
Easter 2
Easter 3
Easter 4
Easter 5
Easter 6
Pentecost Sunday
TRINITY SUNDAY
ORDINARY TIME AFTER TRINITY
First Sunday after Trinity to Twenty-eighth Sunday after Trinity
All Saints
Christ the King Sunday Last Sunday after Trinity