Want a Deeper Advent Experience? Avoid These Common Mistakes

11/28/24 •

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• English

Advent, a period of preparation for Christmas, has a unique meaning for Catholics, emphasizing a focus on Jesus' birth and second coming, rather than worldly celebrations. The season encourages introspection, simplifying life and drawing closer to God through practices like fasting, prayer, and specific traditions like Advent wreaths and Jesse trees. It's important to remember that the essence of Advent is to empty oneself of worldly distractions and focus on the spiritual significance of the season.

Advent's Purpose

• 00:00:00 Advent is a time to prepare for the birth of Jesus and his second coming, unlike secular Christmas celebrations focused on parties and decorations. It encourages a step away from worldly distractions and promotes spiritual reflection and growth, a time for emptying oneself and drawing closer to God.

Simplifying Life for Advent

• 00:01:38 Many Catholics simplify their lives during Advent, focusing on religious practices rather than excessive decorations or festivities. Practices like delaying Christmas tree setup until Christmas Eve or gradually introducing decorations throughout the weeks can help cultivate a sense of anticipation and spiritual readiness for Christmas. Some families also avoid Christmas music and instead opt for Advent-themed music and hymns.

Advent Traditions

• 00:03:24 Various Advent traditions help Catholics engage with the season's meaning. The Advent wreath serves as a visual countdown with candles lit each week, symbolizing anticipation of Jesus' arrival. Nativity scenes are often set up, with Jesus placed in the manger on Christmas morning, reminding families of the true reason for celebration. Some families also utilize the Jesse Tree, which traces the lineage of Jesus through the Old Testament.

Advent Prayers & Devotions

• 00:04:35 Many Catholics engage in specific prayers and devotions during Advent. The St. Andrew Novena, a prayer recited daily from late November until Christmas, is a popular choice. Other families read a chapter of the Gospel of Luke daily, aligning with the 24 days of Advent, while some follow the Jesse Tree tradition, which involves reading the story of salvation history through ornaments and scripture.