There is an ancient tradition of announcing the date of Easter on the Feast of the Epiphany. This proclaims the centrality of the resurrection of Christ in the liturgical year and the importance of the great mysteries of faith which are celebrated each year.
The proclamation may occur after the Gospel, homily, or after the prayer after communion [if blessing chalk (after communion), the earlier options may be preferred so as not to clutter the conclusion of the Eucharist]. It may be sung or said, by the deacon, or other(s).
Here is a version for two people. It can be adapted in a number of ways – including being proclaimed by one person.
Lector 1
Dear brothers and sisters, the glory of the Lord has shone upon us, and shall ever be manifest among us, until the day of his return.
Through the rhythms of times and seasons let us celebrate the mysteries of salvation.Lector 2
Let us recall the year’s culmination, the Easter Triduum of the Lord: his last supper, his crucifixion, his burial, and his rising celebrated between the evening of the 28th day of March and the evening of the 30th day of March, Easter Sunday being on the 31st day of March.Lector 1
Each Easter — as on each Sunday — the Holy Church makes present the great and saving deed by which Christ has for ever conquered sin and death. From Easter are reckoned all the days we keep holy.Lector 2 Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, will occur on the 13th day of February.
Lector 1 The Ascension of the Lord will be commemorated on the 9th day of May.
Lector 2 Pentecost, joyful conclusion of the season of Easter, will be celebrated on the 19th day of May.
Lector 1 And, this year the First Sunday of Advent will be on the the 1st day of December.
Lector 2
Likewise the pilgrim Church proclaims the Passover of Christ in the feasts of the holy Mother of God, in the feasts of the Apostles and Saints, and in the commemoration of the faithful departed.Lector 1
To Jesus Christ, who was, who is, and who is to come, Lord of time and history, be endless praise, for ever and ever.
Amen. [Amen. Amen.]
What a lovely tradition and one I had not heard of until now.
Mardi Gras will be on the 12th of February.
Thank you for reposting this, was just about to sit down and work the dates out for myself 🙂
…unfortunately, I don’t seem to be able to access the link for the music…it appears to be broken. Am not sure if that is an error at my end, or yours, but thought I would let you know.
Epiphany blessings,
and peace.
Thanks, Jane. Thanks for pointing out the problem with the music link – I have removed it. Blessings.