Catholic Church Colors

Colors are one of the most recognizable forms of symbolism. They “call” to us when we see them. The Catholic church is very well known for its use of colors as a way to represent a time, season, event, or even person.

White is used to represent nuptials, Easter, Christmas, All Saints, and feasts associated with Mary and the angels. It represents additional key time/holidays in the church as well, but the above are what is most strongly associated with white. Some of the ways in which white is used on these holidays include banners, Paschal candle, and the candle at the center of the Advent wreath - the only white one, lit on Christmas. You may also see a lot of white in the towels and linens used to prepare the Eucharist.

Red is another Catholic church color that is most commonly associated with Pentecost and Palm Sunday, along with any feast associated with the Lord’s blood. In Pentecost, the red is associated with the fire of the Holy Spirit, which descended upon the apostles. You see priests wearing red on Pentecost.

Violet and purple are used for Advent, Lent, and Good Friday (among other celebrations/seasons). It is common to see rich purple Lent banners during that season. Unlike Lent, banners are not used as commonly during Advent, but you do see the purple candles around Advent wreaths. Purple symbolizes pain, suffering, and pentinence.

White, red, and purple are the most common liturgical colors - seen on Lent banners, candles, and priest garments - but the Catholic church also utilizes green, rose, gold and other variations of the above colors. Of these, green is probably the most recognizable Catholic church colors because it covers a really large chunk of the liturgical calendar - the time after Epiphany and before All Saints.

Now that you know a bit about the meanings of Catholic church colors, you may find yourself more interested in the vibrant violet Lent banners or the blazing red garments of your pastor.

At St. Patrick’s Guild, we offer a wide selection of faith-based gifts, figurines, and books in your favorite Catholic church colors. Check out our selection online today or contact us personally so we can better serve you.