The principal feasts celebrated in the Catholic Church mark key moments in salvation history and the life of the Church. Important fixed and movable feasts include:
The theological basis for these feasts is scriptural and sacramental. The nativity and epiphany recall God made flesh (John 1:14). The Paschal mystery celebrated at Easter and memorialized in the Eucharist testifies to Christ’s death and rising that brings salvation (Romans 6:4). Pentecost emphasizes the Holy Spirit as giver of mission and charisms to the Church (Acts 2:4). Feasts of Mary and the saints express the Church’s belief in holiness, hope and the destiny of believers (Romans 8:30).
The liturgical calendar organizes solemnities, feasts, memorials and seasons. Some celebrations are fixed to calendar dates, such as Christmas on December 25, while others move according to Easter, which is calculated as the first Sunday after the paschal full moon. Lent and Advent are preparatory seasons leading to major feasts, and feast days shape communal prayer, readings and sacramental life throughout the year.
A historical note: Epiphany long preceded widespread Christmas observance in many Eastern communities, and the development of Marian feasts evolved through centuries of devotion and theological reflection, later affirmed by councils and papal teaching. The feasts thus connect Scripture, tradition and lived devotion, guiding the faithful in remembering salvation history and participating in the mystery of Christ.
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