Ordinary Time
Worship Resources for the Season of Ordinary Time
About “Ordinary” Time
What Is Ordinary Time?
Ordinary Time is the longest season in the Christian liturgical calendar. It unfolds in two parts: the weeks after Epiphany and the weeks following Pentecost Sunday until Advent begins. This season is a time for steady spiritual growth, reflection, and discipleship. Unlike the major festivals of Christmas or Easter, Ordinary Time focuses on the ongoing work of faith in everyday life, inviting believers to live out the gospel with consistency and grace.
Pentecost Sunday in Ordinary Time
Pentecost Sunday marks the transition into the second portion of Ordinary Time. It celebrates the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Jesus’ disciples (Acts 2:1–4), empowering the Church for its mission. Pentecost is often called the “birthday of the Church” because it sets the stage for the vibrant witness and ministry that continues throughout Ordinary Time.
Why Ordinary Time Matters
Though it may seem “ordinary,” this season is anything but. It grounds the Church in the rhythms of daily life and faithfulness. Ordinary Time calls us to embody the teachings of Jesus in our homes, workplaces, and communities — living as lights in the world until the next great celebration.
Ordinary Time Liturgy
About Trinity Sunday
What Is Trinity Sunday?
Trinity Sunday is celebrated on the first Sunday after Pentecost and is dedicated to the mystery of God’s triune nature: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Unlike most holy days that mark a biblical event, Trinity Sunday honors a doctrine—the theological understanding of one God in three persons. It invites the Church to reflect on the unity and distinctiveness within the Godhead.
Though the word “Trinity” does not appear in Scripture, the concept is deeply biblical. The Great Commission names all three persons of the Trinity (see Matthew 28:19), and the baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:16–17) presents the Father’s voice, the Son in the water, and the Spirit descending like a dove.
Where Did Trinity Sunday Come From?
Trinity Sunday began to be celebrated in parts of Europe by the 10th century and was officially established for the Western Church by Pope John XXII in the 14th century. It grew out of a desire to give a dedicated liturgical focus to the doctrine of the Trinity—especially after Pentecost, which marks the fullness of God’s self-revelation.
Today, it stands as a capstone to the liturgical seasons that tell the story of salvation: from Advent to Easter to Pentecost. Trinity Sunday shifts the focus from redemptive events to God’s identity—eternal, relational, and united in love.
Why Does Trinity Sunday Matter Today?
Trinity Sunday calls the Church to holy wonder. The doctrine of the Trinity is not a puzzle to solve, but a truth to be celebrated. It shapes how we understand love, community, and mission. The triune God is not distant or abstract, but a communion of persons into which we are invited through Christ and empowered by the Spirit.
In worship, Trinity Sunday is often marked by creeds, doxologies, and hymns like “Holy, Holy, Holy.” It’s a day to marvel that the God we worship is more relational and dynamic than we can comprehend—and to give thanks that this same God has chosen to dwell with us.
Trinity Sunday Liturgy
Liturgies for the Worship of the Trinity
Explore this full liturgy for the Second Sunday after Pentecost (Year C), including scripture readings, call to worship, prayers, confession, and benediction. Rooted in 1 Kings 19, Galatians 3, and Luke 8, this service highlights God’s restoring presence and call to witness.