Ok, Advent Season is Nearly Here

by Jael SC · Published November 22, 2016 · Updated November 23, 2016

Advent means “coming” or arrival, and focuses of the coming of Jesus as Messiah.

This year, Advent starts on Sunday 27 November and runs to Saturday 24 December. Advent’s colour is violet and it is a solemn observance – as preparation for any feast usually is. Traditions associated with Advent are lighting of Advent wreath candles each week, children’s Advent calendars, making a Jesse tree and hanging of the greens.

What’s a Jesse Tree?

A Jesse tree is an amazing project where a tree is decorated with special decorations which symbolise Jesus’ family tree going all the way back to Jesse who was King David’s father. Each step in the family tree gets its own decoration and trees can be big or tiny, ornate or simple. A truly beautiful of celebrating Jesus’ life and getting to know Him better.

What’s Hanging of the Greens?

Perhaps not necessarily referred to by this name – the Hanging of the Greens is actually observed by many Christian denominations including Catholics. Its when the Church is decorated with wreaths, including setting up of the main advent wreath in the Church.

Advent Scriptures

One of the best ways to observe Advent and prepare to celebrate Jesus’ coming is to have a short bible reading plan over these 4 weeks. It can be structured or unstructured – but it should include the Old Testament and New Testament – both gloriously testify to God’s plan of Salvation which reaches its peak in Jesus’ birth.

The most important part of Advent are the scriptural readings that we read at Mass during this time. These are a very old Church tradition that we still retain today. We read from the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Zephaniah, Micah, Matthew and Romans to name just a few. These are read at Mass during Advent, but you can have your own small Bible reading plan which you can do alone or with a loved one.

Whatever you choose to do, Advent should be joyful, prayerful and penitential, with good reason for hope!

Here’s a interactive Advent crossword puzzle to get you into the spirit of things! http://www.churchyear.net/adventpuzzint.html