The proclamation of the date of Easter and the other moveable feasts on Epiphany dates from a time when calendars were not readily available. It was necessary to make known the date of Easter in advance, since many celebrations of the liturgical year depend on its date.The number of Sundays that follow Epiphany, the date of Ash Wednesday, and the number of Sundays that follow Pentecost are all computed in relation to Easter.
Although calendars now give the date of Easter and the other feasts in the liturgical year for many years in advance, the Epiphany proclamation still has value. It is a reminder of the centrality of the resurrection of the Lord in the liturgical year and the importance of the great mysteries of faith which are celebrated each year.
My sisters and brothers, the glory of the Lord Jesus has been made manifest and will continue to be revealed in our midst until he comes again. In the rhythms and alternations of time, let us recall and live the mysteries of our salvation.
Central to the entire liturgical year is our celebration of the
TRIDUUM OF THE LORD, crucified, died and risen, which culminates on
EASTER SUNDAY, the 16th of April. Every SUNDAY, when we recall this paschal mystery, holy Church makes present this great event in which Christ has conquered sin and death.
From Easter derive all our other celebrations: ASH WEDNESDAY, the beginning of the season of Lent,
the 1st of March; the
ASCENSION OF THE LORD, the 28th of May,
PENTECOST, the 4th of June; and the
FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT, the 3rd of December.
Likewise, in the feasts of the holy Mother of God, of the apostles and saints, and in the commemoration of all the faithful departed, the Church, in her pilgrimage here on earth, proclaims the paschal mystery of the Lord.
To Christ who is, who was, and who is to come, the Lord of all time and history: be endless praise now and forever! Amen.