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Liturgical Seasons and Devotional Reflections
THE SEASON OF LENT
Another New Year in the Church's Calendar
Introduction
Every year, as the season of Lent begins, a variety of essays, articles, posts, and reflections emerge discussing its observance. This sacred season may be unfamiliar to many people, whether Christians or not, leading to inevitable questions about what Lent is and its spiritual purpose. If you are looking to learn more about the origins of Lent, the following resources will be helpful.
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Rev. Benard TITA
benard@bambuimajorseminary.comTHE SEASON OF ADVENT
A Time of Preparation and Hope
The season of Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical year in the Roman Catholic Church. It begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on the evening of December 24. The word Advent comes from the Latin *adventus*, meaning “coming” or “arrival.” During this sacred time, Christians prepare spiritually to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and await His return at the end of time. Advent has a twofold character: it prepares the faithful for Christmas while also directing the heart toward the Second Coming of Christ.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that by sharing in the long preparation for the Savior’s first coming, the faithful renew their ardent desire for His second coming (CCC 524).
Liturgically, Advent is marked by simplicity, anticipation, and quiet joy. The colour purple symbolizes preparation and penance, while on the Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday), rose vestments may be worn to signify joy.
The Second Vatican Council teaches that the liturgical year unfolds the entire mystery of Christ, from the Incarnation to the expectation of His glorious return.
May God Help Us as We Prepare for Christmas
NOVEMBER: A Time to Pray for the Faithful Departed
The month of November holds deep spiritual significance in the Catholic Church. It invites the faithful to meditate on death, remembrance (*memento mori* – “remember you must die”), and the communion of saints. Traditionally, the Church dedicates this month to praying for the souls of the faithful departed, especially those in Purgatory.
OCTOBER: A Time to Renew Your Heart Through Mary’s Intercession
October holds a special place in the heart of the Catholic Church. It is dedicated to devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary through the Holy Rosary. During this month the faithful are encouraged to deepen their Marian devotion and meditate on the mysteries of Christ through the Rosary.
The Easter Triduum
The Easter Triduum is the most sacred time in the liturgical year of the Catholic Church. It begins on the evening of Holy Thursday and concludes on the evening of Easter Sunday. These three days commemorate the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ — the central mysteries of the Christian faith.