THE ANGLICAN DIGEST |
THE CHURCH'S CHANGING SEASONS |
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We keep track of time and annual seasons by using calendars that provide us with opportunities to observe, commemorate, and celebrate certain events or special occasions. The Christian liturgical year, which varies among the Churches, provides recurring opportunities to acknowledge and celebrate the Christian Faith in worship.
The Church year as we know it today developed gradually over several hundred years. Many of its roots can be traced to Judaism, the religion of Jesus. The first half of the annual calendar focuses on the life of Christ (Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, and Easter - through and including the Feast of Pentecost).
The second half - in which we are presently - points to the continuing work of Christ, by the Holy Spirit, in the life of the Church. This period begins with the Sunday after Pentecost ("Trinity Sunday") and concludes with the "Last Sunday after Pentecost." During this season the teachings of Christ are emphasized rather than events in his life. Some liturgical scholars divide and interpret the year a bit differently.
According to the Prayer Book (pages 176 and 228), the Church is now in "The Season after Pentecost" or "Whitsuntide" (popularly but inaccurately called the "Pentecost Season"). Listed for each Sunday is a "proper" (from the Latin propria, belonging to). An ancient Christian custom, the propers of the day include the appointed Collect, Psalm, readings from Scripture, and the proper preface.
The Rev Canon Richard T. Nolan, retired Christ Church Cathedral, Hartford West Palm Beach |