Advent, the season of preparation for the coming of Christ at Christmas, should be a time for families to come together in prayer and devotion. In our hectic modern world, however, it is easy to get distracted, and the Christmas music on the radio and decorations in the stores tend to increase our anxiety. No wonder so many people are tired of Christmas by the time Christmas Day finally arrives!
The world may move too fast, but we can slow down. The following activities and devotions can aid us in celebrating Advent as it is meant to be celebrated. And then, when Christmas arrives, we can greet Christ with joy.
Philip's Fast
Advent is called a "little Lent," because, like Lent, it is a time of repentance. While fasting during Advent used to be universal, most Western Christians today treat Advent as an early part of the Christmas season. Eastern Rite Catholics (and the Eastern Orthodox), however, continue to celebrate Advent with the Philip's Fast, named after the Apostle Philip. Find out more about this tradition, and consider taking part—even if only for one day each week.The Advent Wreath
(Photo © Scott P. Richert)
The Advent wreath is a popular Advent custom that originated in 16th-century Germany. It consists of four candles (three purple and one rose), surrounded by evergreen branches. One purple candle is lit the first week, two the second, two purple and one rose the third, and finally all four in the last week of Advent. The light of the candles signifies the light of Christ, Who will come into the world at Christmas. The following links discuss the history and practice of the Advent wreath.
