The Catholic Church’s calendar is divided into six liturgical seasons, beginning with Advent, then Christmas, Ordinary Time, Lent, Easter Triduum, and Easter. The Ordinary Time starts after Christmas but is interrupted on its first weeks by the onset of the Lenten season followed by the Easter season. Then Easter culminates at the celebration of Pentecost (the descent of the Holy Spirit), the Ordinary Time continues until the celebration of the Solemnity of Christ the King. After this begins Advent, the Church’s New Year, this cycle of seasons repeats year after year. Yet, not the same.
Our life as religious revolves around this cycle of seasons. Our Catholic Church is alive and dynamic – ever-growing, consistently advancing, on the move. Observing each Church’s season and being immersed in the different celebrations as we move along, we experience the beauty and richness of our consecration to Christ. Why? Because entering into each season is entering into the life of Christ. We are with Him, or rather, He is with us throughout the year.
Dear Friends, this is not only true for us, but this is also true for you. If you try to be aware of it, you will realize that, indeed, the Lord is so much present in the world and in our lives. Enter into each liturgical season with Him, and you will experience Him. It will make all the difference!
