The church year calendar is centuries old and has existed in its basic format since the Middle Ages. The first half of the church year follows the events in the Life of Christ.

Advent (4 Weeks Before Christmas)

We prepare for the coming of Christ long ago in Bethlehem, as He comes to us now, and when He will come again.

Christmas December 25 - January 5, 12 days)

We celebrate the birth of Jesus, the promised Messiah.

Epiphany (January 7 and continuing for 6 to 8 weeks)

We worship Christ with the wise men, see His baptism, and study His early ministry and miracles. The Epiphany season ends with the Transfiguration of our Lord.

Lent (Ash Wednesday to Easter, about 6 1/2 weeks)

We hear Jesus' teaching as He prepares to "go up to Jerusalem", and we begin to meditate on His suffering and death for the sins of the world.

Holy Week (the last week before Easter)

The events of Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection happened here.

Easter Day

The most important day for all Christians, the day Christ rose from the dead.

Easter Season (50 days)

We continue to celebrate Christ's resurrection.

Pentecost

The coming of the Holy Spirit and the birthday of the Christian Church. The second half of the year focuses on Jesus' teachings and how we can live our lives for Him who first loved us. These Sundays are numbered from the Day of Pentecost and continue until the next Advent season begins.