The first Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of a new liturgical year in the Catholic Church, initiating the Cycle C readings for odd-numbered years. This year, Advent begins on December 1, 2024, and will conclude on November 23, 2025, following the solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.
The liturgical year is composed of six primary seasons: Advent, Christmas, Lent, the paschal Triduum, Easter, and Ordinary Time. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) highlights that each year follows a three-year cycle that determines the biblical readings for Sunday Masses. This cycle is differentiated by the letters A, B, and C, with Cycle C encompassing all years that are multiples of three.
In Cycle C, the Sunday Gospels are predominantly drawn from the Gospel of Luke, while the readings for the Easter season primarily feature the Acts of the Apostles. Furthermore, each cycle incorporates distinct passages from letters of the apostles that align with the theme of the liturgical time.
The arrangement of readings is designed to help the faithful familiarize themselves with a wider swath of biblical scripture over the span of several years, following the direction of the Second Vatican Council. This structure aims to deepen the congregation’s understanding of scripture, as over three cycles, individuals will encounter a considerable part of the Bible. Moreover, for those who attend daily Mass, the exposure to scripture is even more substantial.
As we enter this new liturgical year, it offers an opportunity for renewal and spiritual growth for members of the Catholic community. Advent serves as a time for reflection, anticipation, and preparation, encouraging the faithful to engage more deeply with the teachings and messages from the scriptures.
This cyclical approach to readings not only enriches the worship experience but also serves as a reminder of the timeless nature of the faith, as each year provides a chance to revisit and reflect on sacred texts, fostering a continual journey of faith and understanding.