Liturgical Colours for the United Church Calendar and the Antependium

The United Church of Canada use colour to show important times and themes in the church year. Some of you may notice these colour changes throughout the year in our church. Most common colours that are displayed are purple, red, green, and white. These colours help express the sentiment of the lectionary stories.

Purple or Blue-Displayed during the time of Advent and Lent. The colour purple represents time of penitence, preparation and anticipation. It is a time of preparation for the coming of Christ. Advent takes place in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Lent takes place in the weeks leading up to Easter.

Red-Usually seen during Pentecost and seasons of persecution. It is the colour of fire and blood. Red is a symbol of love, charity, and sacrifice. We use the colour of red for Pentecost.

Green-This colour represents growth and renewal. It is shown at ordinary time in the church liturgical calendar. Green is representative of nature, renewal, and hope. This is the colour of hope in the Resurrection which is the foundation of the Christian faith. You will notice this colour is seen from June to September.

White-This is the colour of celebration. White is the colour of light, purity, glory, and joy. White is displayed at Easter and Christmas during the times we celebrate the birth of Jesus and resurrection of Christ. You will see the colour white also displayed for communion, baptisms, and weddings.

Orange-Our orange banner is symbolic of endurance and strength in Creation Time. It is the colour of harvest, fruitfulness and joy. Orange is also the colour of positive energy, adventure, and confidence. It’s seen as nature’s “last burst of life” before rest in the winter. Creation Time also shows our deep connection with nature.

Holy Week

Holy Monday – Maundy Thursday

March 30 – April 2, 2026
Church Season Colour – Red

Sources:

https://www.terrasanctamuseum.org
https://www.ucc.org
https://united-church.ca
https://stegennys.org/liturgical-colours.html