A liturgical calendar, also known as a Church calendar, is a system used by many Christian denominations to organize and commemorate the annual cycle of religious events, feasts, and seasons. It serves as a guide for worship, prayer, and reflection throughout the year, helping the faithful to connect with the significant events in the life of Jesus Christ and the history of the Christian faith.
The liturgical calendar is structured around the major events in the life of Christ, such as his birth, ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension, as well as the events in the early history of the Church. It divides the year into various seasons and feast days, each with its unique themes, colors, and scripture readings. The calendar highlights the theological significance of these events and provides a framework for spiritual growth and reflection.
There are many Christian liturgical calendars, including Anglican, Orthodox, Catholic, and Lutheran, and all of them have their own variations of the calendar. While specific details may vary among these traditions, the core purpose remains the same: to help Christians journey through the life of Christ and the teachings of the Church in a systematic and meaningful way, deepening their faith and relationship with God.
Embracing the liturgical year has been a transformative journey for our family, one that has enriched our spiritual lives in countless ways. It's like having a roadmap for our faith, guiding us through the seasons of the Church Year and helping us connect more deeply with God's story. Today, I wanted to share with you some of my favorite liturgical calendars that have been constant companions on our faith-filled adventure.
Whether you're new to the concept of liturgical living or a seasoned traveler on this path, these cherished resources can bring a profound sense of purpose and intentionality to your spiritual walk. Join me as we explore the beauty and significance of the liturgical calendar and how it can be a valuable tool for your family's faith journey.
There are two different types of Liturgical Calendars - those with dates printed on them and perpetual calendars (no dates but they can be used year after year).
Liturgical Calendars With Dates:
2022-23 Lectionary Liturgical Calendar from Red Letter Design. I have this hanging in my children's church room and I love it! The kids can't wait to run in on Sunday morning and move the spinner to the date that we are on. It is beautiful and I love how interactive it is!
A Liturgical Calendar For the Year 2023 from Lectionary Page. This is the online calendar that I look at every month to guide my days.
Liturgical Calendars Without Dates:
Modern Liturgical Calendar Wheel by SojournSPFormation. I love the beauty and simplicity of this calendar! It is a digital download that you can print up and frame or hang on your wall.
A Year With God by Catechesis Books. These graphics are absolutely gorgeous! This is a perpetual calendar that walks you through every season. It is free when you pre-order their new book Sacred Seasons which walks you through the Liturgical Year.
God's Big Story Seasons of the Church Year I also use this calendar in children's church. It's simple and the weeks are marked. It gives the kids a great overview of where we are in God's Big Story. It is a digital download.
