The Season after Pentecost (sometimes called Ordinary Time) is the longest period on the Church calendar (approximately 5 months) and stretches from the day after Pentecost until Advent when the cycle of the Church year begins again. Some of the principal holy days that fall in the season after Pentecost include:
TRINITY SUNDAY (Sunday following Pentecost Sunday) This is one of the few days of the Church year that celebrates a truth related to God’s being rather than an event or person. Falling on the Sunday after Pentecost Sunday, this is a day to turn our hearts to the mystery of the Trinity, Three Divine Persons who are One God. “Glory be to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.”
TRANSFIGURATION (August 6) At the height of summer, Christ, our true light, the uncreated Sun, appears transfigured on the mountain.
HOLY CROSS (September 14) The origin of Holy Cross Day is traceable to the apparent discovery of the true cross by Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine. Although this history is questionable, the intent of the day is commendable. As we consider the cross, we fix our eyes on Jesus who died for love of the world, and we say yes to his call to take up our crosses and follow him.
FEAST OF SAINT MATTHEW (September 21) Each of the Apostles have a day dedicated to them. Our parish highlights this day because it is the festival of our patron Saint Matthew.
ALL SAINTS (November 1) All Saints Day is when we remember all saints, known and unknown, official and unofficial. The eve of All Saints is All Hallows Eve, or Halloween.
REIGN OF CHRIST (Last Sunday after Pentecost) Christ the King Sunday is the last Sunday of the Church year and celebrates the rule and reign of Christ as King and Lord. Thus the Church year ends with a focus on the ultimate goal of history, the time when Christ will be all in all.
