Beginning the Church’s liturgical year, Advent (meaning, “ad-venio in Latin or “to come to”) is the season leading up to the celebration of Christmas. The Advent season is a time of preparation that directs our hearts and minds to Christ’s second coming at the end of time and also to the anniversary of the Lord’s birth on Christmas. Advent devotions remind us of the meaning of the season. Special Advent devotions include the lighting of the Advent wreath; the Advent calendar which helps remind us of the season with daily thoughts and activities; Advent prayers that prepare us spiritually for the birth of Jesus Christ. (from USCCB.org)
With prayer, study, generosity, and evangelization, let us welcome Christ deeper into our lives during this special season of Advent. Make an extra effort to pray daily giving God quality time. Consider attending Mass more frequently. Seek to experience God’s forgiveness through reconciliation. Make use of the times for Eucharistic Adoration. We celebrate Jesus’ arrival – let’s have our hearts open and ready!
Spiritual Resources
- Advent/Christmas Season “blue books” – available in the gathering space while supplies last
- Advent Resources (from US Conference of Catholic Bishops)
- Advent Resources (from AmericanCatholic.org)
- Advent Weekly Prayers & Activities (printable)
Informational Resources
- Advent FAQs What Is Advent? What is the Advent Wreath?
- Twenty Christmas Movies approved by US Conference of Catholic Bishops
- Advent Wreath video with Fr. Greg Friedman, O.F.M.