Q: What do the different colours of vestments, altars and other hangings in a church mean?

A: These are known as liturgical colours and you will see them change throughout the year.

White symbolises celebration. It is used for joyful occasions like Christmas and Easter, when gold can also be used. White is also used for special events like baptisms, weddings and confirmations.

Red represents the Holy Spirit (the Fire of Pentecost) and martyrdom (blood), so you will see it used at Pentecost, on the feast days of martyred saints and as we recall Jesus’ suffering and death in Holy Week.

Purple represents repentance and preparation, which is why you see it during Advent and Lent. Purple is often also worn at funerals.

Green symbolises growth and hope. It is the colour for Ordinary Time – the period between Epiphany and Lent and between Easter and Advent.