10 Things to know about the Advent Season

The Catechism of the Catholic Church points out that “When the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year, she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah, for by sharing in the long preparation for the Saviour’s first coming, the faithful renew their ardent desire for His second coming.” (No. 524).

1. The meaning of Advent.

The word Advent comes from the Latin word adventus, meaning “arrival” or “coming” and in the Christian context it refers to the arrival of Jesus Christ.

2. When does advent begin and end?

Advent begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. This year Advent begins on Sunday, December 3. The first Sunday of Advent is also the start of a new Church year.

3. Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical year

The liturgical year serves as a Christian calendar, aiding believers in connecting with significant moments in Jesus Christ's life. It guides us through various seasons, fostering reflection, celebration, and continuous learning along the way.

4. Advent colours

During Advent, the predominant colours used are purple and rose. At Mass, the priest's attire, altar coverings, and Advent candles are typically purple, except on Gaudete Sunday, the third week of Advent, when rose is used to symbolise joy. Additionally, a white candle, often placed at the centre of the Advent wreath, represents Christmas Day itself.

5 Advent wreath

It typically consists of a circular wreath made of evergreen branches. Placed within the wreath are four candles, often three purple and one rose or pink candle. Each candle represents a week of Advent, and they are progressively lit on each Sunday leading up to Christmas.

6. Nativity scene

A nativity scene is the special exhibition, particularly during the Christmas season, of art objects representing the birth of Jesus. On the Meaning and Importance of the Nativity Scene, Pope Francis said, “The nativity scene is like a living Gospel rising from the pages of sacred Scripture. As we contemplate the Christmas story, we are invited to set out on a spiritual journey, drawn by the humility of the God who became man to encounter every man and woman.”

7. Advent hymns

One of the most popular Advent hymns is "O come, O come, Emmanuel" It was originally written in Latin "Veni, veni, Emmanuel" around the 15^th century and translated to English in 1861.

8. Advent themes

Each Sunday of the Advent season focuses on one of four themes, or virtues. The themes may differ based on denominations or preferences. The most common themes are Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. Some traditions include lighting a specific candle on the wreath to symbolise each of the four virtues.

9. Advent calendars

The Advent calendar has its origins in 19th-century Germany, where religious families would mark the days leading up to Christmas Eve with chalk lines or candles on doors or walls. This practice evolved into the creation of the first known Advent calendar in the early 20th century. The popularity of Advent calendars grew throughout Europe and eventually spread worldwide.

10. Advent prayers

Among the various Advent traditions, some hold particular significance within the Divine Office, an integral component of the Church's official liturgy. This Office comprises specific psalms and prayers assigned for each day. Notably, during the final week of Advent, distinct antiphons precede and follow the psalms, recognized as the "O" antiphons due to their commencement with the letter "O."

Be patient until the Lord’s coming…

do not lose heart because the Lord’s coming will be soon. (James 5:7)

Source: https://www.ncregister.com/blog/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-advent-season