Did you notice the colors changing at Mass? As we move into Ordinary Time, the Church shifts to green—the color of growth and steady faith. Ordinary Time follows the joy-filled days of Christmas, when white and gold proclaimed Christ’s birth and light in the world.

Green — Growing in Faith
Green marks Ordinary Time, the longest stretch of the Church year. This season is a time for growth and maturation, when the faithful are invited to deepen their understanding of Christ’s teaching.

Purple — Preparing the Heart
Green gives way to purple during Lent, a season of repentance and preparation for Easter. Later, purple returns in Advent, expressing watchful hope as the Church prepares again for Christmas. On the Third Sunday of Advent, the Church may use rose, signaling a moment of joy as Christmas draws near.

White & Gold — Celebrating God’s Light
After preparation comes celebration. White and gold shine during Easter and Christmas, marking seasons of joy and the glory of Christ. These colors are also used for celebrations of the Lord (except of his Passion), of Mary, of the Angels, and of Saints who were not Martyrs.

Red — Passion, Pentecost, and Martyrdom
At key moments—especially Pentecost—the Church wears red. It is also used on Palm Sunday and Good Friday, and on feasts honoring the Lord’s Passion, the Apostles and Evangelists, and the martyrs, recalling sacrifice and faithful witness.

A Rhythm of Color That Forms Us
As the colors change, the Church gently leads us through the life of Christ again and again. Noticing these shifts invites us to reflect on how this season is shaping our faith and our life in the Church — waiting, rejoicing, growing, witnessing.

Source: USCCB

(For the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, 2026)