Advent Explained

Advent is a season observed in many Christian traditions as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas. The term “Advent” comes from the Latin word “adventus,” meaning “coming” or “arrival.” It typically begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and lasts until Christmas Eve, encompassing a period of about four weeks.

During Advent, Christians focus on themes of hope, anticipation, and reflection. It serves as a spiritual preparation for the coming of Christ, both in remembrance of his historical birth and in anticipation of his future return. Many churches and families use Advent wreaths with four candles, lighting one more each week to symbolize the light of Christ coming into the world.

Advent is also a time for prayer, penance, and fasting in some denominations, similar to the season of Lent before Easter. The Scriptures read during Advent often highlight prophecies about the coming Messiah and call believers to readiness and watchfulness.

Overall, Advent is a meaningful period that invites believers to pause, reflect, and prepare their hearts for the joyous celebration of Christmas and the hope it brings. Advent starts Sunday November 30th, 2025.

The Sundays of Advent and What They Represent

Advent is the period of four Sundays leading up to Christmas, each Sunday having its own theme and significance as Christians prepare for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

1. First Sunday of Advent – Hope (Prophecy Candle)
   The first Sunday of Advent symbolizes hope and expectation. It reminds Christians of the prophets who foretold the coming of the Messiah. The candle lit on this day is often called the Prophecy Candle, representing the hope and anticipation of Christ’s arrival.
2. Second Sunday of Advent – Peace (Bethlehem Candle)
   The second Sunday focuses on peace. It reflects on the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem and the preparation for the coming of Jesus. The candle lit is known as the Bethlehem Candle, symbolizing the peace that Christ brings to the world.
3. Third Sunday of Advent – Joy (Shepherd’s Candle)
   The third Sunday is characterized by joy. It celebrates the joy the shepherds felt upon hearing the good news of Jesus’ birth. The candle lit is called the Shepherd’s Candle and is often pink or rose-colored to signify a shift from penance to celebration.
4. Fourth Sunday of Advent – Love (Angel’s Candle)
   The fourth Sunday represents love, focusing on the message of the angels who announced the birth of Jesus. The candle, known as the Angel’s Candle, symbolizes the pure love of God made manifest in the birth of Christ.

Together, these four Sundays guide believers through a spiritual journey of hope, peace, joy, and love in anticipation of Christmas.

Please check back with us weekly each Sunday for Scripture, Reflection and Prayer.