Morning Prayer: We are in Ordinary Time - What is "ordinary" about Ordinary Time?

 


Nothing about Ordinary Time is “ordinary” in the sense of plain or unimportant. The season is called ordinary because its weeks are numbered — ordinal — not because the time is spiritually routine. It is actually the Church’s long season of growth, discipleship, and living the Gospel in daily life.

🌿 What “ordinary” really means

  • The term comes from ordinal numbers — first, second, third, etc. — used to count the Sundays. It does not mean “nothing special is happening.”

  • Ordinary Time is the longest season of the year, lasting 33–34 weeks, divided into two parts:

    • After Epiphany → before Lent

    • After Pentecost → before Advent

🌱 What makes Ordinary Time spiritually rich

Ordinary Time is the Church’s growing season.

  • We hear the stories of Jesus’ public ministry — His teachings, parables, healings, and encounters with ordinary people.

  • The readings focus on how to live as disciples: forgiveness, mercy, service, humility, and daily faithfulness.

  • Instead of preparing for a feast (Advent/Lent) or celebrating one (Christmas/Easter), we practice steady, faithful Christian life — the kind that shapes us quietly over time.

🌿 Why the Church uses green

Green is the color of growth, life, and hope, reminding us that discipleship matures slowly, like a plant rooted in good soil.

👑 Where Ordinary Time leads

The season ends with the Solemnity of Christ the King, reminding us that all our ordinary days are ordered toward the reign of Christ.


Read more Morning Prayer posts: MSI Press Blog

Note about Morning Prayer: Each morning prayer post reflects on one phrase from the Morning Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours. which can be found in the iBreviary (a downloadable app), Universalis (website) or Divine Office (publication and website). Post may be assisted by AI in image generation and content (research and/or wording).


Morning Prayer posts inspired by Being Catholic in Troubled Times (Dennis Ortman)

Book Description:

These are times that try our souls. This book is addressed to all, not just Catholics, who search for deeper meaning in tough times. Our age is marked by division and alienation. We long for some message that will bring peace to our world and our hearts.

This book suggests that the Catholic faith can provide strength in these troubled times. The word "catholic" means "all-embracing, universal." Nothing is excluded in the catholic mind. The truth that sets us free can be found everywhere, especially in unexpected places. It is often hidden in plain sight. In our darkest moments, we find new light and life. When we are most despairing, a ray of hope shines through.



Dr. Dennis Ortman, former priest and current psychologist, is the author of Anger Anonymous, Anxiety Anonymous, Depression Anonymous, Being Catholic in Troubled Times, and Life, Liberty, and COVID-19.


For more posts by and about Dennis and his award-winning books, click HERE.



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