Velankanni Matha: Hope, Harmony & Miracles in Tamil Nadu

Liturgical Seasons of the Eastern Rites

Written by: Richard John

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Time to read 4 min

Liturgical Seasons of the Eastern Rites


The liturgical calendar holds immense significance in the Eastern Catholic traditions, particularly in the Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara Churches. These traditions, rooted in ancient Christian heritage, follow distinct liturgical seasons that guide the faithful in their spiritual journey throughout the year. The liturgical calendar helps believers reflect on the mysteries of Christ’s life, participate in feasts and fasts, and deepen their relationship with God.


This blog explores the liturgical seasons of the Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara Churches, highlighting their unique significance and special feasts that enrich these traditions.


Liturgical Calendar in the Syro-Malabar Church


The Syro-Malabar Church follows the East Syriac liturgical tradition, with its calendar structured around the mysteries of Christ’s life. The year is divided into nine seasons, each with its own themes and significance:


1. Annunciation (Subbara)

  • Marks the beginning of the liturgical year, celebrating the announcement of Jesus’ birth to Mary.

  • Begins in late November or early December and prepares for the birth of Christ.

  • Special prayers and hymns reflect on Mary's role in salvation history.


2. Nativity (Yeldho)

  • Celebrates the birth of Christ and the joy of salvation.

  • This season extends until the Epiphany, commemorating the visit of the Magi.

  • Traditional hymns and readings emphasize the mystery of the Incarnation.


3. Epiphany (Denha)

  • Focuses on Jesus’ baptism and revelation as the Son of God.

  • Encourages spiritual renewal through baptismal remembrance.

  • The blessing of water is a central ritual during this season.


4. Lent (Sawma Rabba)

  • A period of fasting, penance, and preparation for Easter.

  • Includes the Way of the Cross and other penitential practices.

  • The forty days reflect Christ’s fasting in the wilderness.


5. Resurrection (Qyamtha)

  • Celebrates the victory of Christ over death through His resurrection.

  • The most joyous season, culminating in Easter Sunday.

  • Special liturgies focus on the triumph of life over death.


6. Pentecost (Sleeha)

  • Honors the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and the birth of the Church.

  • Encourages missionary activity and evangelization.

  • The faithful reflect on their call to spread the Gospel.


7. The Season of the Cross (Qudas Edta)

  • Focuses on the significance of the Holy Cross and Christ’s sacrifice.

  • Reminds believers of their call to bear their own crosses.

  • Devotions and processions highlight the salvific role of the Cross.


8. The Season of Moses (Eliya-Sleeha-Moosa)

  • Reflects on the teachings and prophetic role of Moses.

  • Calls the faithful to obedience and trust in God’s law.

  • The readings emphasize the covenant relationship between God and His people.


9. The Dedication of the Church (Koodash Etta)

  • Ends the liturgical year with the celebration of the Church as the Body of Christ.

  • Encourages believers to renew their commitment to faith.

  • The faithful participate in special prayers of rededication.


Liturgical Calendar in the Syro-Malankara Church


The Syro-Malankara Church follows the West Syriac tradition, with its liturgical calendar centered around Christ’s salvific work. It is structured into five key seasons:


1. Annunciation-Nativity

  • Begins the liturgical year with a focus on the Incarnation.

  • Includes the feasts of the Annunciation, Christmas, and Epiphany.

  • The prayers emphasize the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Christ.


2. Great Lent and Resurrection

  • A time of fasting, prayer, and repentance leading to Easter.

  • Celebrates Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection.

  • The forty days of Lent prepare believers for the joy of the Resurrection.


3. Pentecost

  • Marks the coming of the Holy Spirit and the mission of the Church.

  • Encourages spiritual renewal and evangelization.

  • The readings emphasize the empowerment of the faithful by the Holy Spirit.


4. Transfiguration and the Cross

  • Highlights the Transfiguration of Jesus and the significance of the Holy Cross.

  • Celebrates the Exaltation of the Cross, an important feast in the Eastern traditions.

  • The faithful reflect on the divine nature of Christ.


5. Dedication of the Church

  • Concludes the liturgical year by focusing on the Church’s role as the dwelling place of God.

  • Calls for the faithful to reflect on their commitment to Christ.

  • Special prayers emphasize the mission of the Church in the world.


Unique Feasts in the Eastern Rites


In addition to universal Christian feasts like Christmas and Easter, the Eastern Catholic Churches celebrate unique feasts:


1. Dukhrana (Feast of St. Thomas the Apostle)

  • Celebrated on July 3, honoring St. Thomas, the apostle of India.

  • A significant feast in both the Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara traditions.

  • Special prayers and processions commemorate the missionary work of St. Thomas.


2. The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

  • Observed on September 14, emphasizing the power and significance of the Cross.

  • A major feast in the Syro-Malankara tradition.

  • The faithful venerate the Cross through special devotions.


3. The Feast of the Assumption of Mary (Shoonoyo)

  • Celebrated on August 15, marking Mary’s assumption into heaven.

  • A solemn feast with processions and Marian devotions.

  • The faithful honor the Virgin Mary’s role in salvation history.


4. The Feast of Denha (Epiphany)

  • Commemorates the baptism of Jesus and the manifestation of His divinity.

  • Marked with special prayers and a focus on renewal through baptism.

  • The blessing of water is a central ritual during this feast.


5. The Feast of Koodash Etta (Dedication of the Church)

  • Celebrates the Church as the mystical body of Christ.

  • Encourages believers to renew their faith and dedication.

  • The faithful participate in the solemn consecration of church buildings.


Conclusion


The liturgical seasons of the Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara Churches serve as a spiritual roadmap for the faithful. These rich traditions guide believers through the mysteries of Christ’s life, fostering a deeper connection to their faith. The unique feasts and traditions of these Eastern Catholic Churches highlight the beauty of their spiritual heritage, making them an integral part of Christian liturgical life. Through the observance of these sacred seasons and feasts, the faithful are continually drawn into the mystery of salvation and the transformative power of the Gospel.



Liturgical Seasons of the Eastern Rites