Christian Festivals

The seasons of the year, however subtly or obviously they shift and change from place to place, are a reflection of a spiritual reality that moves unseen through all matter. They reveal the deeds of Christ that continue to work on and in the earth year after year.

Celebrating the festivals can help us to grow in and connect to the true meaning of birth, growth, death, transformation and rebirth that we are experiencing in our lives and in the world around us. It offers a way to consciously participate in a world that feels as though it is moving ever faster. The rhythm of the year breathes, and we may breathe along with it.

The festival year begins with Advent, the four weeks leading up to Christmas, and continues with Christmas, Epiphany, Passiontide, Easter, Ascension, Pentecost (or Whitsun), St. Johns, and Michaelmas. Each festival season brings changes in our sacramental life (through word and color) and in our wider community life (through activities).

Each Christian Community congregation may celebrate the festivals in different ways – with special events for adults, children and the whole community. These can include workshops, bonfires, puppet plays, and ‘gardens’ for the children– visit a local congregation or see their program to find out how they celebrate together.

Learn more about the festival we are currently celebrating or download a seasonal children’s story.

Further reading:

The Rhythm of the Christian Year: Renewing the Religious Cycle of Festivals, Emil Bock
Celebrating Festivals Around the World, Evelyn Francis Capel
The Christian Year, Evelyn Francis Capel
Festivals with Children, Brigitte Barz

Additional Resource: Songs for all Seasons  a musical collection of 55 songs for The Consecration of the Human Being