The season of Ordinary Time is a period of the liturgical year that follows the Christmas season, beginning directly after the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, and lasts until Ash Wednesday.
It begins again on the Monday after Pentecost and ends on the Saturday before the First Sunday of Advent. The last Sunday of Ordinary Time is celebrated as the solemnity of Christ the King.
During this time, the Church focuses on the teachings and ministry of Jesus Christ. Rather than celebrating a specific event, the overall purpose of the season is to elaborate the themes of salvation history.
During Ordinary Time, the liturgical color is usually green, symbolising the growth of the Church. The readings during this season focus on Jesus’ public ministry, emphasising how his teachings can shape our lives today. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are read in a three-year cycle during this time. It is a time of prayerful reflection, when the Church reflects upon the mysteries of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.
Ideas for practicing your faith during Ordinary Time
During Ordinary Time, there are many ways to practice your faith. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Take part in a scripture study group. This can help you deepen your understanding of the Bible and the teachings of your faith.
- Participate in a service project. Volunteering your time to those in need can be a special way to practice your faith.
- Take some time to pray. Spend a few minutes each day in prayer, reflecting on the teachings of your faith and asking for guidance.
- Attend a spiritual retreat. A retreat can be a powerful way to spend time reflecting on your faith and connecting with others on a similar spiritual journey.
- Read spiritual texts. Reading spiritual texts can help you gain a better understanding of your faith and the teachings of the church.
- Spend time in nature. Taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of nature can provide a tangible way to reflect on the power of God and the creation.