19/07/2026
WHAT IS ORDINARY TIME AND HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?
Ordinary Time is one of the seasons of the Catholic Liturgical Year. Although the word “ordinary” may sound like something simple or unimportant, it comes from the idea of numbered weeks. It is a special time when Catholics reflect on the life, teachings, and mission of Jesus Christ.
Ordinary Time is not a season without meaning. It is a period of spiritual growth where the Church invites believers to deepen their faith, grow in holiness, and live the Gospel in everyday life.
The Liturgical Year includes important seasons such as Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter. Ordinary Time fills the periods between these major celebrations and focuses on the ongoing journey of following Christ.
There are two periods of Ordinary Time:
THE FIRST PERIOD OF ORDINARY TIME
The first part begins after the celebration of the Baptism of the Lord and continues until Ash Wednesday, when the Church enters the season of Lent.
During this time, Catholics reflect on the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, His teachings, His miracles, and His call for people to follow Him.
THE SECOND PERIOD OF ORDINARY TIME
The second and longer period begins after Pentecost Sunday and continues until the beginning of Advent.
This part focuses on the mission of the Church and the growth of God’s people. The readings during this season help believers understand how to live as disciples of Christ in the world.
Ordinary Time can last between 33 and 34 weeks in total, depending on the arrangement of the Liturgical Calendar each year.
The colour used during Ordinary Time is green. Green represents life, hope, growth, and the journey of faith. It reminds Catholics that spiritual growth requires patience, prayer, and daily commitment.
During Ordinary Time, the Church invites us to learn from Jesus’ words and actions. We are encouraged to love God more deeply, serve others, practise charity, forgive, and become faithful witnesses of the Gospel.
Ordinary Time teaches an important lesson: God is present not only during major celebrations but also in the ordinary moments of daily life.
Every day is an opportunity to grow closer to Christ, strengthen our faith, and allow God’s grace to transform our hearts.
🙏🏼 Great Amen Catholica