Advent

We are waiting, O God, for the day of peace. Give us the will to bring that day through our own simple goodness and hope. Fill us with patient desire, that our work may be holy, and our holiness bright, through the Christ for whose coming we long, and the Spirit in whose presence we live.  Amen.

What is Advent?

The season of Advent is a time when we prepare their hearts to receive Christ. The word Advent refers to the “coming” or “arrival” of Jesus Christ. Advent always includes four Sundays and varies in length from twenty-two to twenty-eight days. Advent ends with Christmas Eve.

What does it mean to prepare our hearts to receive Christ?
Christians are also waiting for Christ’s promised return to the world, called the “Second Coming.” Advent is a time of waiting, expectation and longing. Often times when we are making or buying gifts, preparing meals, or visiting friends and family, we forget about Christ. Advent provides an opportunity for us to slow down, talk and listen to God who helps us get ready for the coming of the Christ child.

What is the color of Advent?
The traditional color for Advent is purple which refers to the coming of the royal King, Jesus Christ, and it also refers to repentance. Traditional candle colors in an advent wreath vary: Some use 3 purple and 1 pink. Others use four purple candles. Blue candles can also be used in the Advent wreath. The Christ candle in the center of the advent wreath is white.

What is the Advent Wreath?

An Advent wreath is a ring holding four candles decorated with greenery. The circle symbolizes God’s everlasting love for God’s creation and the evergreens represent Christ’s gift of eternal life. The light of each candle represents the light that Christ brings to the World. On Christmas day, a white Christ candle is lit in the center of the wreath to announce the birth of Christ who is the Light of the World.