The first two days of December fall during the liturgical season known as Ordinary Time and is represented by the liturgical color green. The next 22 days fall during the liturgical season of Advent and are represented by the liturgical color purple—a symbol of penance, mortification and the sorrow of a contrite heart. The remaining days of December mark the beginning of the Christmas season. The liturgical color changes to white or gold — a symbol of joy, purity and innocence.
The Holy Father's Intentions for the Month of December 2023
For persons with disabilities: We pray that people living with disabilities may be at the center of attention in society, and that institutions may offer inclusive programs which value their active participation. (See also http://www.popesprayerusa.net/)
Focus of the Liturgy
The Gospels for the four Sundays in December 2023, are taken from St. Mark are from Cycle B. The Weekday readings are from Year II.
| December 3rd First Sunday of Advent |
Mark 13:33-37: Be watchful! You do not know when the lord of the house is coming |
| December 10th Second Sunday of Advent |
Mark 1:1-8: Make straight the paths of the Lord. |
| December 17th Third Sunday of Advent |
Jn 1:6-8, 19-28: There is one among you whom you do not recognize. |
| December 24th Fourth Sunday of Advent |
Luke 1:26-38, Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son. |
| December 31st Feast of the Holy Family |
Luke 2:22-40: The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. |
Feasts for December 2023
3. FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT, Sunday
6. Nicholas, Opt. Mem.
7. Ambrose, Memorial
8. IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF MARY, Solemnity
9. Juan Diego (USA) , Opt. Mem.
10. SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT, Sunday
11. Damasus I, Opt. Mem.
12. Our Lady of Guadalupe (USA), Feast
13. Lucy, Memorial
14. John of the Cross, Memorial
17. THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT, GAUDETE SUNDAY, Sunday
20. Ember Wednesday
21. Peter Canisius, Opt. Mem.
22. Ember Friday
23. John of Kanty; Ember Saturday, Opt. Mem.
24. FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT, Sunday
25. NATIVITY OF THE LORD (Christmas), Solemnity
26. Stephen, Feast
27. John, Apostle, Feast
28. Holy Innocents, Feast
29. 5th Day in the Octave of Christmas; Thomas Becket, Opt. Mem.
31. Feast of the Holy Family, Feast
From catholicculture.org
