Advent marks the beginning of the Christian liturgical year. Derived from the Latin word “ad-venire,” meaning “to come,” Advent is observed as a season of anticipation and preparation. It encompasses the four Sundays leading up to the joyous celebration of Christmas, guiding our hearts and minds towards the multifaceted significance of Christ.
This special time in the Church calendar serves as a period of preparation, directing our focus in two key directions. Firstly, Advent orients us towards Christ’s glorious second coming at the end of time, a promise that has captivated believers since the early Church. Secondly, it grounds us in the present as we commemorate the anniversary of Our Lord’s birth on Christmas. Instead of engaging in speculation about the timing of Jesus’ return, the scripture readings during Advent call us to a more meaningful response. Advent is not about predicting the future; rather, it is a call to be alert and spiritually ready. We are urged to avoid becoming weighed down and distracted by worldly concerns, as emphasized in Luke 21:34-36.
Similar to Lent, purple is the liturgical color associated with Advent. This shared color signifies that both seasons are dedicated to preparation for major feast days. Advent, however, carries a particular nuance of penance. It is a time for quieting our spirits, disciplining our hearts, and preparing ourselves to receive the full joy of Christmas with a renewed sense of reverence and anticipation. This involves creating space in our busy lives for reflection and spiritual growth, allowing us to more deeply appreciate the coming of Christ.
The General Instruction of the Roman Missal outlines specific liturgical observances for Mass during Advent. The priest traditionally wears violet or purple vestments throughout Advent, symbolizing penance and preparation. A notable exception is the Third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday, when rose-colored vestments may be worn (GIRM, no. 346). This Sunday offers a moment of joyful anticipation amidst the season of preparation. Beyond the priest’s attire, the aesthetic of the Church may also shift during Advent, often incorporating more modest decorations around the altar to reflect the season’s focus on inward reflection and spiritual preparation.
The final days of Advent, spanning from December 17th to 24th, intensify our focus on the immediate preparation for the Nativity of Our Lord at Christmas. A significant tradition during this period is the singing of the “O” Antiphons. These ancient hymns, used by the Church since at least the eighth century, offer a rich theological reflection on the coming of Christ. Drawing from Old Testament messianic prophecies, the “O” Antiphons proclaim Christ’s arrival as the fulfillment of both ancient hopes and the longings of the present day. They highlight the multifaceted nature of Christ and his anticipated arrival.
Various Advent devotions, such as the Advent wreath, serve as tangible reminders of the season’s deeper meaning. These practices help us to actively engage with the spirit of Advent. Utilizing an Advent calendar, with its daily activities and prayer suggestions, can further enrich our experience, guiding us in spiritual preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. These tools and traditions are designed to help individuals and families fully immerse themselves in the Advent season, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the coming of Christ.
