Ordinary Time in the liturgy is the longest period of the church year, focusing on daily growth in faith and accompanying Christ in His public ministry. Although it is not associated with major feasts such as Christmas or Easter, it plays an extremely important role in the life of the Church, as it enables the faithful to deepen their relationship with God through regular participation in the Eucharist and listening to the Word of God
In our workshop, we create liturgical vestments for parishes, religious communities and priests in Poland and across Europe. For over three decades, we have observed the great significance of appropriately chosen colours and liturgical symbols, particularly during celebrations taking place during Ordinary Time
In this article, we will explain what Ordinary Time is, when it falls, the significance of the colour green, and which liturgical vestments are most commonly used during this period
What is Ordinary Time?
Ordinary Time is the part of the liturgical year that does not include the major festive seasons, such as Advent, Christmas, Lent and Easter. The name may suggest something mundane or of lesser importance, but in reality it refers to the orderly sequence of the weeks in the church year
Ordinary Time is divided into two parts:
- the first begins after the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord,
- the second begins after Pentecost and lasts until the start of Advent.
In total, it comprises 33 or 34 weeks, making it the longest liturgical season
During this time, the faithful reflect primarily on the teachings of Jesus Christ, His miracles and the events associated with the Saviour’s public ministry
Liturgical colours – meaning and use
The symbolism of Ordinary Time
Green: the colour of hope and growth
The most characteristic feature of Ordinary Time is the colour green. It symbolises life, spiritual growth, hope and perseverance in following Christ day by day
In contrast to periods of penance or feasts, which are more solemn in nature, Ordinary Time reminds us that holiness is built, above all, in everyday life
The colour green is present on:
- chasubles,
- liturgical stoles,
- copes,
- shoulder veils,
- and other liturgical textiles.
The spiritual growth of the faithful
Ordinary Time encourages systematic growth in faith. Successive Sundays guide the faithful through the Gospel, revealing various aspects of Christ’s mission and the life of the Church.
This is a time particularly conducive to:
- deepening one’s prayer life,
- participating in the Eucharist,
- studying the Holy Scriptures,
- and developing community life.
What liturgical vestments are used during Ordinary Time?
The primary liturgical vestment used during Holy Mass is the green chasuble. Its colour directly refers to the symbolism of spiritual growth and hope.
In many parishes, richly embroidered designs are particularly popular, as they emphasise the solemn nature of the liturgy whilst maintaining the appropriate symbolism
Green Gothic chasubles
Green Gothic chasubles are the most popular choice. They are characterised by a comfortable cut, elegance and a large surface area for liturgical embroidery.
At our embroidery workshop in Wrocław, we produce both classic designs and bespoke projects tailored to the needs of the parish
Liturgical stoles
Green stoles are also an integral part of the priest’s vestments during Ordinary Time.
A carefully chosen stole should harmonise with the ornamentation of the chasuble, creating a coherent aesthetic whole
Altar covers and textiles
The following items are also used during services:
- liturgical copes,
- shoulder veils,
- altar cloths,
- chalice liners
The quality of their workmanship affects not only the aesthetics of the celebration but also the durability of the church’s furnishings
Embroidery and symbols used during Ordinary Time
Although Ordinary Time does not have such distinctive iconography as Christmas or Easter, there are many motifs frequently used in the decoration of liturgical vestments
Christological motifs
Among the most popular are:
- the IHS Christogram,
- the Latin cross,
- and the PX monogram
These motifs emphasise Christ’s central place in the celebration of the Eucharist
Floral symbolism
Due to the significance of the colour green, ornaments inspired by nature are also frequently used:
- vines,
- acanthus leaves,
- olive branches,
- ears of grain
Such designs symbolise life, renewal and the fruitfulness of faith
Liturgical embroidery – symbolism and aesthetics
Why is it worth investing in high-quality vestments for Ordinary Time?
As Ordinary Time covers most of the liturgical year, these are the vestments used most frequently. This means that their quality is of paramount importance for durability and comfort of use.
Durability for years to come
Professionally crafted chasubles are made from materials that withstand frequent use and cleaning. Carefully executed embroidery retains its aesthetic appeal for many years.
The aesthetics of the liturgy
The beauty of the liturgy helps the faithful to experience the celebration more deeply. Well-crafted vestments emphasise the dignity of the Eucharist and respect for the mysteries being celebrated.
The manufacturer’s experience
Urbanowicz Haft Polska has been designing and producing liturgical vestments for parishes in Poland and Europe for over 30 years. Our many years of experience allow us to combine traditional embroidery techniques with modern technological solutions, creating durable and aesthetically pleasing products.