Church Matters: Retrieving the Great Tradition

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Chur ch Mat ter s : Ret r i ev i ng the Great Trad i t i on

The Church Year – Western Church, continued

Good Friday – The Friday before Easter which commemorates the crucifixion of Christ (John 18-19). Easter Sunday – The Sunday which celebrates the resurrection of Christ (John 20). Ascension Day (Forty days after Easter) Celebrates the Ascension of Christ to heaven at which time God “seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come” (Eph. 1.20b-21; 1 Pet. 3.22; Luke 24.17-53). Pentecost (The seventh Sunday after Easter) The day which commemorates the coming of the Holy Spirit to the Church. Jesus is now present with all his people (John 16; Acts 2). All Saints Day (November 1) A time to remember those heroes of the faith who have come before us (especially those who died for the Gospel). The living Christ is now seen in the world through the words and deeds of his people (John 14.12; Heb. 11; Rev. 17.6). • It begins with the birth of Christ (Advent to Epiphany). • It then focuses on the revelation of his mission to the world (Epiphany and Transfiguration). • It reminds us that Jesus set his face toward Jerusalem and the cross (Ash Wednesday and Lent). • It chronicles his final week, his crucifixion, and his resurrection (Holy Week). • It affirms his Ascension to the Father’s right hand in glory (Ascension Day). • It celebrates the birth of his Church through the ministry of his Spirit (Pentecost). • It remembers the history of his Church throughout the ages (All Saints Day). • Advent both ends the cycle and begins it again. It looks forward to his Second Coming as the conclusion of the The Church Year Follows the Ordering of the Gospel and Acts

Birth Ministry Passion Ascension Descent of the Spirit The Church through the Ages Second Coming