As we settle into the fall, the Church is already preparing for the start of a new spiritual cycle! For those in the RCIA program, understanding the Liturgical Year is key to understanding the Catholic faith. It is the annual calendar that organizes our worship and prayers around the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The new Liturgical Year—which includes all of 2026—will follow Cycle B for Sunday readings (focusing primarily on the Gospel of Mark).
Here is a simple guide to the major seasons and start dates for the year ahead:
Part 1: Seasons of Preparation and Feast
| Season | Focus | Start Date | RCIA Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advent | Preparation for the coming of Christ (Christmas). | Sunday, November 30, 2025 | The beginning of our active preparation for the Sacraments. |
| Christmas | The Incarnation of God—God became man. | Thursday, December 25, 2025 | Celebrating the central mystery of our faith. |
| Lent | A 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. | Wednesday, February 18, 2026 (Ash Wednesday) | The intense final period of purification and enlightenment for candidates. |
| Easter Triduum | The three holiest days of the year (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday). | Thursday, April 2, 2026 | The climax of the entire faith journey, culminating in the Easter Vigil and the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation. |
| Easter Season | Fifty days of joyful celebration of the Resurrection. | Sunday, April 5, 2026 (Easter Sunday) | The final period of post-baptismal mystagogy (newly initiated members reflecting on their Sacraments). |
Part 2: Ordinary Time
The longest part of the year is called Ordinary Time (called "ordinary" because the Sundays are numbered, not because it's boring!). It is divided into two parts:
| Season | Focus | Start Date | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Time I | Reflecting on Jesus’ public ministry after his Baptism. | Monday, January 12, 2026 | A time to learn about the works and teachings of Christ. |
| Ordinary Time II | Time for continued spiritual growth and learning how to live the mission of Christ in the world. | Monday, May 25, 2026 | The longest season, running all the way until the end of the calendar year. |
Embrace the Rhythm
The Liturgical Year provides a beautiful rhythm for our lives of faith. By following it, we walk alongside Christ through his entire earthly journey, learning from his teachings, mourning his death, and celebrating his triumph over the grave.
We encourage all RCIA candidates to use this calendar to deepen your understanding of the Mass and the seasons we celebrate together as a Church family!
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