When common time begins in the Catholic church, many people may feel a little confused or curious about the meaning of this liturgical period. It’s a time after the busiest festivities on the calendar, such as Christmas and Easter, and has its own special characteristics.
The Meaning of Ordinary Time
When we talk about Ordinary Time in the liturgy of the Catholic Church, we are not referring to something common or ordinary in the worldly sense of the word. In fact, Ordinary Time has a much deeper meaning and is an essential part of the liturgical calendar.
What is Ordinary Time?
Ordinary Time is divided into two periods throughout the liturgical year: one after the celebration of the Baptism of the Lord and the other after the Feast of Pentecost. During these periods, the liturgical color used is green, symbolizing hope, growth and new life.
The importance of Ordinary Time
During Ordinary Time, we are invited to reflect on the life and teachings of Jesus, to grow in our faith and to live as missionary disciples in the world.
It is a time of spiritual growth, of deepening our relationship with God and of witnessing the Gospel in our daily lives. It is a period of grace and opportunity, in which we are called to live holiness in the midst of the ordinary realities of life.
How to experience Ordinary Time
It is important to actively participate in community life, prayer, sacraments and service to others. It is a time to grow in love and charity, to strengthen our hope and to commit ourselves to building the Kingdom of God here on earth.
Therefore, let us not underestimate the importance of this time. It is a valuable period in which we are called to grow, to mature in faith and to live as authentic disciples of Christ.
When does Ordinary Time begin?
The first part of Ordinary Time begins right after the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which marks the end of the Christmas Season. At this moment, the Church invites us to reflect on the public life of Jesus, his ministry, his teachings and miracles.
The second part of Ordinary Time begins after the Feast of Pentecost.
