Easter

Easter, the most important feast day in the Christian calendar, commemorated the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It was celebrated on the first Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox, making it a movable feast. The entire Easter season lasted for fifty days, from Easter Sunday to Pentecost, and was a time of joy and celebration. The liturgical color for Easter was white, symbolizing the triumph of Christ’s resurrection over death.

Easter was preceded by Holy Week, which included Palm Sunday, commemorating Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem; Maundy Thursday, marking the Last Supper; Good Friday, commemorating Christ’s crucifixion; and Holy Saturday, which marked the time of Christ’s burial.

Pentecost

Pentecost, celebrated fifty days after Easter, commemorated the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, as described in the Book of Acts. It marked the birth of the Church and was often referred to as the "Feast of the Holy Spirit." Pentecost was a time of celebration, symbolized by the color red, representing the fire of the Holy Spirit.

Ordinary Time

The periods between the major seasons, such as between Pentecost and Advent, were known as Ordinary Time. This was a time for reflection on the life of Christ and His teachings. While not marked by specific feasts, it was still an important part of the liturgical calendar, providing time for spiritual growth and development.

In addition to the major seasons, the church calendar was filled with numerous feast days dedicated to saints. Saints were individuals who were considered to have led exemplary Christian lives and were venerated by the Church. Many local communities had special feast days for saints who were particularly significant to their region or town. Some of the most widely celebrated saints included:

• St. George (April 23rd) – Patron saint of England, a figure associated with the legendary dragon-slaying story.
   

• St. Michael (September 29th) – The archangel who fought against Satan, honored as the protector of the Church.
   

• St. Nicholas (December 6th) – A bishop of Myra in Asia Minor, known for his generosity and kindness. His feast day inspired the modern celebration of Christmas and the figure of Santa Claus. shutdown123