The Colours of the Liturgical Seasons

  • White/Gold: As the sum of all colours, white or gold can be worn at any time. These are used especially for major feasts of Our Lord, the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Angels, Confessors, and Virgins. Worn during Christmastide and Eastertide, white or gold may also be used at funerals to symbolise the Resurrection.

  • Red: Symbolising fire and blood, red is worn on Pentecost, feasts of martyrs, Palm Sunday, and may also be used on Good Friday.

  • Green: The colour of hope, green is used during what the Church refers to as Ordinary Time.

  • Violet: Representing penitence, humility, and longing, violet is worn during Lent and Advent, on All Souls’ Day, and may also be used for funerals.

  • Rose: A sign of refreshment and joy, rose is traditionally worn on the Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday) and the Fourth Sunday of Lent (Laetare Sunday).

  • Black: Symbolising mourning and solemnity, black may be worn on Good Friday, All Souls’ Day, and at funerals. Though less common today and often replaced by violet, its use remains permitted for clergy who prefer it.

Minimum Liturgical Vestments for Those in Holy Orders

  • White/gold stole (as it may be worn at any time)

  • Alb and amice (if required), with girdle

  • Reconciliation stole

  • White/gold chasuble

  • Cassock

  • Surplice

  • Black scarf or tippet
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