The liturgy of the Episcopal Church proclaims the story of Jesus' love in a rhythm that follows the seasons of the year. This church calendar represents hundreds of years of tradition, dating to fifth century Jerusalem. For Episcopalians, the church calendar provides a framework for our spiritual life. Beginning with Advent, we are immersed in the stories of our faith – of Christ's birth, life, death, and resurrection. Liturgical colors are used for vestments and altar cloth to mark the six seasons.

The season of Christmastime is the second season of the Church year, lasting a brief 11 days from Christmas Day until January 6. It is a time for remembering the birth of Jesus and the idea of Incarnation – God becoming human.

The first service (or liturgy) of Christmastime occurs late in the afternoon on the Eve of Christmas Day. Many families with young children attend this service. Later that evening another service is held. Called the Christ Mass, it is very festive, and many people consider it a highlight of our year. A final Christmastime service is held on Christmas morning. White, often trimmed in gold, decorates the Christmastime liturgies with a symbol of purity, joy and hope.

Christmastime is followed by the season of Epiphany

Pentecost · Advent · Christmas
Epiphany · Lent · Easter
chart of the church calendar