What is Advent? – Catholic Valley

Advent begins four Sundays before December 25 to prepare us for Christmas.

Christmas = Christ entering our world.
Advent = expectant waiting, hopeful anticipation, and joyful preparation.

Advent is our preparation for God coming into our lives and hearts in all moments, all places, and all times (past, present, and future).

Advent is a time that reminds us to commemorate the birth of Jesus, welcome God into our lives everyday, and to prepare for Christ’s second coming. It reminds us there’s joy in waiting.

Advent begins a new year for the Church.

Advent is different from Lent because it is a season of hope, not repentance. During Lent, we work on cleaning ourselves up; but during Advent, it is a cozier time to get yourself ready to welcome Jesus.

The colors of Advent are purple and rose.

On the third week, the candle is rose for Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete means rejoice (don’t lose heart).

Advent is not about shopping, stressing, planning, or buying.
Advent is about expecting, waiting, hoping, and praying.

Suggestions on what to do during Advent:

Volunteer your time at a hospital or soup kitchen.
Spend extra time in prayer.
Be more patient with your family.
Countdown the days with an Advent Calendar.
Speak kindly to strangers.
Go to Church and Adoration.
Share hope with those who need it most.

Not quite sure about the relationship between Advent and Christmas? Check out Busted Halo’s two-minute video that describes why we celebrate Advent and wait to celebrate Christmas.

What is the true meaning of Advent? What are we required to do? Join Fr. Chris Alar as he explains this important season and what you need to know to prepare for the End Times (Judgement) on this episode of Explaining the Faith.