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Environment
Church environment has to do with the "looks" of the Church. It is not so much decoration as atmosphere. The atmosphere in the church is to reflect "noble simplicity" and be directed to the various seasons and celebrations of the Church Liturgical Year.
The Liturgical Year
Much like the seasons of the year,
the liturgical year of the Church is divided into sections.
They are...
Advent
The first Sunday of Advent begins the new Liturgical year.
This season is a time of preparation for the coming of Christ at the end of time and the anniversary (Christmas)of the coming of Christ in history. The environment is one of simplicity with the focus on the Advent Wreath. The color for this Season is bluish purple.
Christmas
The Celebration of the Birth of Christ. Christmas should not be
anticipated, The season does not start until the Eve before December 25th.
The environment is festive and the focus is on the creche'.
The color is white or gold.
Ordinary Time
Ordinary time begins after the Last Liturgy on the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. Usually three full weeks after Christmas Day. The Christmas season does not end until this feast.
Ordinary time is not called ordinary because it is dull, but because it is the normative time.
The color is green - for hope and the atmosphere is one of noble simplicity.
Lent
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. The atmosphere is one of starkness.
The crucifix is the focus during this time and all other symbols are to
be subdued. Flowers are not permitted during Lent.
The color is a red purple.
Easter
The greatest feast of the Church Liturgical year is Easter.
The atmosphere is one of jubilant festivity. The focus is on the
Paschal or Christ candle and the baptismal water.
The color is white or gold.
Ordinary Time
We return to Ordinary Time until the first Sunday of Advent.
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