Advent, from the Latin word “adventus,” meaning “arrival,” is a season observed in many Christian churches as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for both the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas and the return of Jesus at the Second Coming. Traditionally, Advent spans four Sundays and weeks before Christmas Day, marking the beginning of the liturgical year for Christians.

1. Historical Origins: The tradition of Advent began in the 4th century as a period of fasting and penance similar to Lent. Initially, the duration of Advent varied, but by the 6th century, the Roman Church standardized it to four weeks.
2. Spiritual Significance: Advent is a period of spiritual reflection, anticipation, and hope. It commemorates the waiting of humanity for the Messiah and reflects on the significance of Christ’s first coming while anticipating his second coming.
3. Customs and Symbols:
   • Advent Wreath: A key symbol of Advent in many churches, featuring four candles around a wreath, each representing one week of Advent. A new candle is lit each Sunday leading up to Christmas.
   • Advent Calendars: Used to count down the days of Advent, often with a small gift or candy for each day.
   • Color Scheme: Liturgical colors typically include purple or blue, symbolizing penance and preparation, and pink or rose on the third Sunday (Gaudete Sunday), symbolizing joy.
4. Cultural Variations: While Advent is primarily a Christian tradition, its observance varies widely among different denominations and cultures. Some observe it as a strict period of penitence, while others focus more on joyful anticipation.
5. Modern Observance: In contemporary times, Advent has taken on a more diverse character. While still deeply rooted in Christian ritual, it also encompasses broader cultural activities such as Advent concerts, special Masses and church services, Adoration, Confession, and community events. It serves as a time for charitable activities and acts of kindness, reflecting the spirit of anticipation and hope that characterizes the season.
6. Mainly it involves: interior cleansing. Nothing is more important. This is the “welcome mat.” Come into our souls, Lord Jesus. Come into the world, Lord.

Advent is a multifaceted season, embodying themes of waiting, preparation, reflection, and joy. It sets the tone for the Christmas season, reminding believers of the deeper spiritual significance of Christ’s birth and the anticipation of His return.

[resources: Christmas books, specials]

[From the mail:

Christmas. season

When you die, 10 things GOD won’t ask you:

1….. God won’t ask what kind of car you drove. He’ll ask how many

people you drove who didn’t have transportation.

2….. God won’t ask the square footage of your house, He’ll ask how

many people you welcomed into your home.

3…. God won’t ask about the clothes you had in your closet, He’ll

ask how many you helped to clothe.

4….. God won’t ask what your highest salary was. He’ll ask if you

compromised your character to obtain it.

5….. God won’t ask what your job title was. He’ll ask if you

performed your job to the best of your ability.

6….. God won’t ask how many friends you had. He’ll ask how many

people to whom you were a friend.

7…. God won’t ask in what neighborhood you lived, He’ll ask how you

treated your neighbors.

8….. God won’t ask about the color of your skin, He’ll ask about the

content of your character.

9….. God won’t ask why it took you so long to find Him and ask Him

into your house, He’ll lovingly take you to heaven and not to the

gates of Hell.

10….. God won’t have to ask how many people you forwarded this to,

He already knows your decision.]

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