Advent

The season of advent

What is Advent?

Advent isn't about shopping, stressing, planning, or buying but about expecting, waiting, hoping, and praying. Advent is all about waiting for Jesus Christ—yesterday, today, and tomorrow. First, we remember and accompany Mary, Joseph, and the newborn Jesus. Second, we prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ birth this Christmas, so that the day doesn’t pass us by with just sentimental words and short-lived presents. Third, we anticipate the second coming of Jesus Christ, who will come in power and glory and establish his kingdom of peace and justice on earth. 

What can I do to prepare for Advent?

In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the holidays try and pause and to enter more deeply into this beautiful season of Advent where the message of hope, love, joy, and peace abound. Some suggestions are below on what this might look like:

• Go to Mass and Confession
• Spend some extra time in prayer - pick up your prayer card at all the Church exits
• Be patient with your family
• Speak kindly to strangers 
• Consider praying the O Antiphons from December 17-23
• Have your child be an angel or shepherd at Christmas Eve Mass - sign up here

Advent Resources 

• Calendar of events at St. B's 
• Daily emails - from Dynamic Catholic and Loyola Press (for adults) and Holy Heroes (for families) 
• Resources from the USCCB and Sadlier (children's activities)
• Advent Calendars - go digital this year with an Advent calendar from Busted Halo or Loyola Press (for children), or download a paper-based copy from Partners in Faith
• Jesse Tree - learn about Jesus' genealogy through this Catholic tradition
• Advent Article recommended by Father Steve titled The journey of Advent: to hasten towards God's love 
• Color and create your own 3D Nativity craft set - for kids and adults alike!