Because today is the first day of Advent, it is also the first day of the new liturgical year.

The liturgical year is provided by the Church to organize worship of the holy mysteries of God. The calendar begins with our preparation for our Lord's first Advent or coming. The calendar continues with the celebration of His first Advent at Christmas, Christ's earthly ministry including His Passion and Resurrection, His Ascension, and Pentecost when the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the Church. Finally, the year concludes with our anticipation of His second Advent.

During this year the readings will be taken from Cycle B which means that the primary Gospel readings will be taken from the Gospel according to St. Mark.