Unlocking the Mysteries of the Liturgical Calendar's Colors & Symbols

Curious about the Catholic liturgical calendar?

In a recent episode of The Catholic Talk Show, Ryan Scheel, Ryan Dellacrosse and Father Rich Pagano delve into the rich tapestry of faith that is the liturgical calendar.

They unravel the mysteries behind its colors and symbols, revealing their rich significance in the liturgy and exploring how they serve to enhance our connection to the faith.

Father Pagano reminds us that as Catholics, we are called to be liturgical people actively participating in the work of God.

“Holy Mother Church encourages us to fully, actively and consciously participate in that work [liturgy], and that requires some study and some insight.”

The liturgical calendar serves as a guide, helping us navigate the Church’s liturgical seasons and connecting them to the life and ministry of Jesus.

Scheel explains there are six primary seasons: Advent, Christmas, Lent, the Triduum, Easter and Ordinary Time.

“The liturgical seasons are meant to accompany us in Mass, to show us the Life of Christ, and to help teach people the temporal nature of Christ’s Ministry.”

Specific colors accompany each season — white, red, green, violet, black, gold or silver—that “define and tie into symbolically the nature of the season.”

The significance of the liturgical calendar extends beyond its colors.

The calendar also encompasses a range of feasts, memorials and solemnities that celebrate different aspects of the faith.

Solemnities, for instance, are of the highest degree and reserved for the most important mysteries of the faith. Feasts honor specific mysteries, titles of the Lord or Our Lady, or saints of particular importance, while memorials are dedicated to more general saints.

“These remembrances are very important. Feasts need to be practiced in the home, celebrated at the church, and articulated with music, food, and fellowship.”

The guys encourage everyone to engage more deeply in the Church’s liturgy and immerse themselves in its vibrant tapestry. By doing so, we can grow in piety and love, fostering a profound connection to our faith and its sacred mysteries.

“The church is structured in her liturgical calendar for you to participate fully in the fruitfulness that’s before us.”