“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
Ecclesiastes 3:1
What is the Liturgical Year?
At St Clare’s, we follow the Liturgical Year – a beautiful journey through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Just like we have seasons like spring and summer, the Church has seasons too! These help us grow in faith, celebrate God’s love, and learn about the story of Jesus all year long.
Each season has special colours, stories, prayers, and celebrations. Here’s a simple guide for families and children to understand the Liturgical Year:
The Seasons of the Church Year
Advent (Purple and Rose)
When? Late November to Christmas Eve
What’s it about? A time of waiting and getting ready for Jesus’ birthday at Christmas. We light candles on the Advent wreath and try to bring hope, peace, joy and love to others.
Try this at home: Make a kindness calendar during Advent!
Christmas (White)
When? December 25th to the Baptism of Jesus in January
What’s it about? We celebrate the birth of Jesus – God’s special gift to the world. It’s a time for joy, giving, and peace.
Try this at home: Say a prayer by the crib each night and thank God for Jesus.
Ordinary Time (Part 1) (Green)
When? After Jesus’ Baptism until Lent
What’s it about? We learn about Jesus’ life and teachings. “Ordinary” here means “in order” – it’s a time to grow in faith through everyday life.
Try this at home: Read a Bible story about one of Jesus’ miracles.
Lent (Purple and Rose)
When? Ash Wednesday to Holy Saturday
What’s it about?Lent is a time for thinking, praying, and giving. We remember Jesus’ time in the desert and prepare our hearts for Easter.
Try this at home: Give something up, or give extra time to helping others.
Easter (White and Red for Pentecost)
When? Easter Sunday to Pentecost (50 days)
What’s it about?Jesus is risen! Easter is a joyful celebration of new life and hope. We celebrate Jesus’ victory over death and His promise of eternal life.
Try this at home: Have a “Resurrection Garden” or sing Alleluia prayers.
Ordinary Time (Part 2) (Green)
When? After Pentecost until Advent begins again
What’s it about? We learn how to live like Jesus every day and remember that Jesus is our King. It ends with the Feast of Christ the King.
Try this at home: Talk about how you can follow Jesus at school and home.
Living the Church Year at St Clare’s
At St Clare’s, we celebrate the seasons of the Church through:
- Whole-school liturgies and Masses
- Class reflections and assemblies
- Prayer tables and displays in each classroom
- Songs, scripture, and special charity projects
We invite all families to journey with us through the Liturgical Year – growing in love, faith, and understanding of Jesus.