I was listening to an SSPX priest over the radio explaining that the Christmas decoration were to be taken down this last Sunday because according to the 1962 Calendar, the feast of the Holy Family was the last festive day in the season.

I am aware that in many countries, especially in Europe, the Christmas/festive season was celebrated until the Feast of the Presentation on Feb.2.

Was 1962 the first year to mandate decorations be removed from church after the feast of the Most Holy Family in the Latin Church.?

It's because next Sunday is Septuagesima -- hard to celebrate and fast at the same time...

Many years you CAN celebrate until Feb 2, but I feel compelled to take down my tree by next Sunday, as it's pre-Lent. Some people begin fasting at that point -- but regardless, the Church begins her mourning at Septuagesima (no more Alleluia, etc.)

Overall, I like to be in line with the spirit of the Church.

Matthew

Was there a different practice in the Latin Church prior to 1962? I know that in the Byzantine Church, we do not have any penitential Sundays until Meatfare Sunday.