Advent
Advent is a roughly month-long period of prayer and reflection prior to Christmas.
Advent is a roughly month-long period of prayer and reflection prior to Christmas.
Renee Harleston
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The term “Advent” is derived from the Latin word “adventus” which means “to come.” Advent is a time of prayer and reflection. Celebrants are encouraged to prepare their hearts not only for the celebration of Christmas, but also for Jesus’s promised return at the end of the world. It occurs over the four Sundays prior to Christmas.
There is no clear date as to when the celebration of Advent began, but records from the Council of Tours in 567 A.D. mention an Advent season. The celebration of Advent differed in length throughout the middle ages, with Advent sometimes being celebrated across five Sundays and, other times, across four.
Traditions
There are a number of different Advent practices depending on the denomination of the celebrant. In many churches, Advent is marked with a special liturgy. Priests wear special vestments, frequently in shades of violet and pink.
Many churches also light Advent candles in an Advent wreath. The Advent wreath features four candles with a center candle to be lit on Christmas Eve. The colors and symbolism of the candles on the Advent wreath differ by denomination. Observers may also have Advent wreaths in their own homes.
Observers may pray specific Advent devotionals during the season, and some fast during this time.
Even non-religious people may observe Advent. Advent calendars, which can be filled with candies and other treats, are sold in stores throughout November and December. These Advent calendars do not follow religious Advent, but rather mark the days between December 1 and December 25. Advent calendars were popularized in the 19th century by German Lutherans.
Some Christians opt for a Jesse tree to mark Advent, rather than a calendar. The Jesse tree is a small tree, with ornaments that correspond with a Biblical story being placed on the tree each day of Advent.
Who observes this holiday
Advent is marked by a number of Christian denominations. Anglicans, Lutherans, Episcopalians and Catholics all celebrate Advent. Some non-denominational Christians also celebrate Advent. Orthodox Churches celebrate a similar season, but with some key differences.
When it is observed
Advent begins on the Sunday nearest to November 30, or St. Andrew’s Day, and continues for four subsequent Sundays. St. Andrew’s Day is a feast day for Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland, Romania, Greece, Russia and Poland. Not much is known about St. Andrew other than that he was an apostle of Jesus.
Advent can last anywhere from 21 to 28 days, depending on when Christmas falls.
What to do
There is no traditional greeting for Advent.