When you think of the word advent, you may think of getting a chocolate or treat each day in December, anticipating the greatest treat on the day of Christmas. The word Advent comes from the Latin word adventus, which means coming or arrival. Advent is a time for holy expectation, as we wait and prepare for the coming of Christ, both the first coming 2000 years ago and the second coming, when all will be made new. Advent worship is like a journey through the Christmas story, a time for remembering and rejoicing. These are meaningful traditions that bring rhythm to our lives and deepen our experiences.

For centuries the Church has celebrated the four-week Advent season by lighting candles in a wreath and reflecting on the coming of Jesus as told in Scripture. Beginning the fourth Sunday before Christmas, a new candle is lit each week to represent the anticipation of Christmas coming. The circle of the wreath represents God’s never-ending love for us, the evergreens represent Christ’s gift of eternal life and the candles announce Jesus as the Light of the World. Each week of Advent focuses on one of the different gifts that Christ’s arrival has brought to us: hope, peace, joy, and love.

May the hope, peace, joy, and love of Christ be with you and your family during this season as you prepare your hearts for His coming. Download our Advent Book and print it out at home to read through as a family.