Advent

The time of preparation for Christmas. Traditional a time to decorate the house and Christmas tree. A time to buy presents and send cards. In the Church it is a time to prepare hearts and souls for the message of Christmas day.

Meaning of Advent

Advent is a Christian festival leading up to Christmas. The name advent means coming or arrival. It is a time when Christians are encouraged to remember not only that Jesus came into the world in Palestine 2000 years ago but that Jesus also promised one day to return in all His glory. Christians should prepare their hearts and souls for the time when Christ will return.

When does advent start?

Advent starts on the first Sunday after Saint Andrew's day (November 30th) and continues through the next four Sundays that will lead up to Christmas day. Traditionally we are encouraged to think on four things as Christmas approaches (see below).

What do the four Sundays in advent represent?

Each Sunday in advent has a theme to be pondered on during the season. In many churches candles (either red or purple) are lit on these four Sundays, and a fifth (white) candle is lit on Christmas day. The four themes (traditionally) are:
God's people - the advent hope.
The old testament prophets
John the Baptist
Mary the mother of Jesus