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The Christian Year

The Christian year is anchored in the main salvation history events described in the New
Testament. Its anchors are celebrations of Jesus' birth, death, resurrection, ascension, and the coming of the Holy Spirit. ... Thus, the Christian year is a memorial to key events in salvation history. The Christian year ensures that worshipers will be fed a balanced diet of biblical themes.

- John Witvliet, Introduction to the Christian Year

Resources for the Christian Year
Introduction to the Christian Year
John Witvliet
chapel address providing theological background for observance of the Christian year

The Pattern of the Christian Year
Howard Vanderwell and Norma de Waal Malefyt
includes scripture references, discussion starters, and descriptions of each season

Worship Service Outlines for the Christian Year
Howard Vanderwell and Norma de Waal Malefyt

The Liturgical Year: Themes and Environment
Joyce Ann Zimmerman

An Annual Rhythm for Worship (Reformed Worship)
Willis Jones

Colors of the Church Year
chart from the Ministry Resource Center

Prepare the Calendar
resources for preparing a preaching calendar from the Center for Excellence in Preaching

Visual Arts in Worship: The Christian Year
slideshows of visual arts in worship services throughout the Christian year

Further Reading
Designing Worship Together, Norma de Waal Malefyt and Howard Vanderwell, Alban Institute, 2005, especially "Planning the Worship Calendar," pp. 96-128.

Ancient-Future Time: Forming Spirituality through the Christian Year, Robert E. Webber, Baker Books, 2004.

The New Handbook of the Christian Year. Hickman, Hoyt, et al. Abingdon Press, 1992.

Time and Remembrance in Christian Worship. Syllabus, Lester Ruth, Asbury Theological Seminary

Lectionary Resources
The Text This Week
scripture study, weblog, worship links, and related resources for the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL)

Vanderbilt Lectionary Project
scripture readings and frequently asked questions about the RCL, from the Vanderbilt Divinity Library

Sermon Starters from the Revised Common Lectionary
weekly helps for pastors from the Center for Excellence in Preaching

When Will It Be Read?
compilation by the Rev. Richard Losch of Livingston, Alabama—includes RCL as well as Episcopal, Roman Catholic, Lutheran and Methodist lectionaries