Marking Time: Forming Spirituality through the Christian Year

52

Mark i ng T ime : Formi ng Sp i r i tua l i t y through the Chr i s t i an Year

3. Its meaning in Jesus’ history : His resurrection, with appearances to his disciples and other witnesses, as well as his infallible proofs offered between the time of the resurrection and the ascension to the Father’s right hand.

4. The Season of the Church Year : Eastertide, the Resurrection and Ascension of Christ, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit

a. On Easter Sunday we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. He who was betrayed by his own disciple, crucified on a Roman Cross, and buried in a borrowed tomb, rose triumphantly from death to life through the power of God. “Christ is risen! He is risen, indeed!” b. For fifty days, from Easter Sunday to Pentecost, we ponder the risen Jesus in his appearances to his disciples. Given all authority, Jesus ascends up to heaven to God’s right hand, and sends to us the promise of the Father, the Holy Spirit. c. On Pentecost we commemorate the coming of the Holy Spirit to the people of God, the Church. Jesus is now present with his people in the person of the Spirit, to the glory of God the Father. We ponder this mystery together on Trinity Sunday.

5. As to Spiritual Formation : Let us participate by faith in the victory of Christ over the power of sin, Satan, and death.

G. Kingdomtide (the Season after Pentecost): the Reigning Lord in Heaven, the Bridegroom and Coming King

1. Biblical framework : Now reigning at God’s right hand till his enemies are made his footstool, Jesus pours out his