THE ECCLESIASTICAL YEAR

THE ECCLESIASTICAL YEAR

What is the ecclesiastical year?

The ecclesiastical year is the order of seasons and holydays, beginning with the first Sunday of Advent and ending with the last Sunday after Pentecost, during which the Catholic Church commemorates in her public worship the mysteries and events of redemption.

Which are the chief holy-days and seasons of the ecclesiastical year?
The holy seasons are :
1. Christmas, for which Advent is the preparation.
2. Easter, for which Lent is the preparation.
3. Pentecost, extending to the first Sunday in Advent.

What does the Church commemorate at Christmas?
The infinite love of God the Father, Who, according to His promise, sent His only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem mankind. This holy season begins with the first Sunday in Advent, and ends with the sixth Sunday after Epiphany.

What does the Church commemorate at Easter?
The infinite love of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, Who, by His life, His works, His passion, death, and resurrection, accomplished our redemption, and then ascended into heaven there to be our mediator. This holy season begins with Septuagesima Sunday, and ends at the vigil of Pentecost.

What does the Church commemorate at Pentecost?
The infinite love of God the Holy Ghost, Who imparts to the faithful the fruits of the redemption purchased for them by Christ. This holy season begins with Pentecost Sunday, and ends with the last Sunday after Pentecost.

How is the ecclesiastical year divided?
The ecclesiastical year is divided into :
1. The fifty-two Sundays. 2. The week-days. 3. The feasts. 4. The fast-days.

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