Picturing Theology, Revised Edition

Picturing Theology, Revised Edition | 283

The Church Year Follows the Ordering of the Gospels and Acts

It begins with the birth of Christ (Advent to Epiphany).

Birth

It then focuses on the revelation of his mission to the world (Epiphany).

Ministry

It reminds us that Jesus set his face toward Jerusalem and the cross (Ash Wednesday and Lent).

Passion

It chronicles his final week, his crucifixion and his resurrection (Holy Week).

Ascension

It affirms his Ascension to the Father’s right hand in glory (Ascension Day).

Descent of the Spirit

It celebrates the birth of his Church through the ministry of his Spirit (Pentecost).

The Church through the Ages

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 Church year but also prepares to remember again his first coming and thus starts the Church year afresh.

Second Coming

Colors Associated with the Church Year Christmas Season (Christmas Day through start of Epiphany): White and Gold Epiphany Season: Green Ash Wednesday and Lent: Purple Holy Week • Palm Sunday: Purple • Maundy Thursday: Purple • Good Friday: Black • Easter Sunday: White and Gold Ascension Day: White and Gold Pentecost: Red All Saints Day: Red Advent Season (Fourth Sunday before Christmas through Christmas Eve): Purple The Meaning of the Colors Black Mourning, Death Gold Majesty, Glory Green Hope, Life Purple Royalty, Repentance Red Holy Spirit (flame) Martyrdom (blood) White

Innocence, Holiness, Joy