The Easter season ends on Pentecost, May 20, which is represented by the liturgical color white — the color of light, a symbol of joy, purity and innocence (absolute or restored). The remainder of the month (beginning the Monday after Pentecost) is in Ordinary Time which is represented by the liturgical color green. This symbol of hope is the color of the sprouting seed and arouses in the faithful the hope of reaping the eternal harvest of heaven, especially the hope of a glorious resurrection.
The month of May is dedicated to The Blessed Virgin Mary.
The Holy Father's Intentions for the Month of May 2024
For the Formation of Religious and Seminarians: We pray that religious women and men, and seminarians, grow in their own vocations through their human, pastoral, spiritual and community formation, leading them to be credible witnesses to the Gospel.
Focus of the Liturgy
The Gospel readings for May are taken from St. John, except for the feast of the Ascension, which is taken from St. Matthew. The weekday readings are from Year A, Weekdays Year 1.
May 5
Sixth Sunday of Easter
Year B, John 15:9-17: No one has greater love than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends.
May 12
Ascension Sunday or Seventh Sunday of Easter
Ascension: Year B, Mark 16:15-20: The Lord Jesus was taken up into heaven and took his seat at the right hand of God.
Seventh Sunday: Year B, John 17:11b-17: That they may be one just as we are one!
May 19
Pentecost Sunday
Year B, John 20:19-23: As the Father sent me, so I send you: Receive the Holy Spirit.
May 26
Trinity Sunday
Year B, Matthew 28:16-20: Baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
