How The Traditions Of Advent Can Bring You Closer To Christ Before The Solemnity Of His Birth

Advent is a season observed in many Christian denominations as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas. The word "Advent" comes from the Latin word "adventus," which means "coming" or "arrival." Advent begins on the Sunday closest to November 30th and lasts for four weeks, culminating on Christmas Eve. This year, Advent begins on December 3rd. The liturgical year ended on November, 26th with the celebration of Our Lord Jesus Christ as King of the Universe. Indeed He is!

This year, Mike and I are going to be participating in an Advent prayer study based on the writings of C.S. Lewis.

If you’re interested in learning more about this, and possibly participating with us, here is the link: Advent Prayer with C.S. Lewis.

Photo by KaLisa Veer on Unsplash

One of most common traditions in Christian churches during Advent is the lighting of the candles in an Advent wreath. The Advent wreath is a circular wreath made of evergreen branches, symbolizing eternal life. It typically holds four candles, three purple and one pink candle. Each candle represents a week of Advent, with the pink candle lit on the third Sunday, known as Gaudete Sunday. The candles are lit progressively as each week of Advent passes. Recognizing the increasing light that every week brings as more candles are lit can help to remind us that Jesus is the Light of the World.

Does your church partake in the lighting of an Advent wreath?

How about in your home?

Just about every single year since I’ve been married (30+ years), I’ve tried to have some sort of Sunday evening tradition to remind the family of the true meaning of Christmas. And, every year, I’ve failed quite miserably.