Advent always starts four Sundays before Christmas. This year Advent starts Sunday, December 1.
Advent is a time to focus on preparing ourselves for the birth of Christ. Like Mary between the time of the Annunciation and Birth, we take time to nourish the presence of God inside us, so that it grows, so we too may give birth to Christ, in our families, places of work, friends, and to those in need. Let us use this Advent to prepare. If you do not already, please consider taking 5-10 minutes daily to pray, reflect and make more room for God in your mind, heart and life. Below are Advent resources to help you prepare during this special time.
Advent Wreath
It is a tradition during Advent to light a candle on the Advent Wreath each week.
The candles on the wreath remind us that, as Christians, we’re meant to shine the light of Christ in this world. As Jesus tells us,
You are the light of the world … let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16)
The Advent wreath has rich meaning and symbolism Click here for about the Advent Wreath.
Each week there is a theme to reflect upon.
- The 1st Sunday of Advent symbolizes HOPE with the “Prophet’s Candle” reminding us that Jesus is coming.
- The 2nd Sunday of Advent symbolizes PEACE with the “Angel’s Candle” reminding us of the message of the angels: “Peace on Earth, Good Will Toward Men.”
- The 3rd Sunday of Advent symbolizes JOY with the “Shepherd’s Candle” reminding us of the Joy the world experienced at the coming birth of Jesus.
- The 4th Sunday of Advent symbolizes LOVE
Devotions & Reflections
- Dynamic Catholic: Best Advent Ever
- Bishop Barron: Advent Gospel Reflections
- Loyola Press: Journey with St. Joseph
Deeper Understanding of Advent
ADVENT – Video Series on Formed.org
How exactly are we preparing our hearts for the greatest gift we’ve ever been given? Consider experiencing the joy of the true meaning of Christmas through an exploration of the mystery of the Incarnation, the Virgin Birth, and the events surrounding the arrival of Jesus with this special Advent video series on Formed.org.
(All OLG Parishioners have access to Formed.org for FREE! If you don’t have an account yet, click here for instructions to get your account.)
Prayers
- Join us for the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Every Tuesday 4 – 7 PM in the Church
- Come for the Sacrament of Reconciliation during Adoration on Tuesdays from 4 – 6 PM in the Sacristy.
- Advent Family Prayer Each day gather your family around the Advent wreath to pray, generally before the evening meal. The proper number of candles are then lit and a prayer is said. Feel free to pray from your heart or use one of these prayers.
God of Love, Your son, Jesus, is your greatest gift to us. He is a sign of your love. Help us walk in that love during the weeks of Advent, As we wait and prepare for his coming. We pray in the name of Jesus, our Savior. Amen
If you would like to pray specific to each Sunday in Advent, Ignatius Press suggests:
First Week All-powerful God, increase our strength of will for doing good that Christ may find an eager welcome at his coming and call us to his side in the kingdom of heaven, where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Second Week God of power and mercy, open our hearts in welcome. Remove the things that hinder us from receiving Christ with joy so that we may share his wisdom and become one with him when he comes in glory, for he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Third Week Lord God, may we, your people, who look forward to the birthday of Christ experience the joy of salvation and celebrate that feast with love and thanksgiving. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Fourth Week Father, all-powerful God, your eternal Word took flesh on our earth when the Virgin Mary placed her life at the service of your plan. Lift our minds in watchful hope to hear the voice that announces his glory and open our minds to receive the Spirit who prepares us for his coming. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Additional Resources
- United States Conference of Catholic Bishops – What is Advent?
- Advent Calendar
- LA Catholics- Advent
- Busted Halo – Advent Resources
- Loyola Press- Creating an Advent Tree of Kindness
- Creighton University’s Online Ministries – Experiencing Advent Deeply for Busy People