Religious Education & Faith Life

Advent

This coming weekend is the Feast of Christ the King, which celebrates Jesus as the King of the Universe and is the last Sunday before Advent begins. 

Advent is a special season in the Catholic Church that marks the beginning of the liturgical year. It spans the four weeks leading up to Christmas and is a time of joyful expectation and spiritual preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior.

The word Advent comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming.” During this season, we reflect on two comings of Christ:

1. His first coming as a humble child born in Bethlehem.

2. His second coming at the end of time, when He will return in glory.

    

Advent is not just about decorating and gift-giving; it is about preparing our hearts and lives to welcome Jesus. Catholics do this through prayer, Scripture reading, acts of kindness, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The Advent wreath, with its four candles, reminds us of the growing light of Christ in the world. Each candle represents hope, peace, joy, and love—the virtues we strive to live as we await His birth.

This season calls us to slow down, make space for God, and remember that Christmas is about Christ entering our lives. By focusing on prayer and service, we prepare not only for the celebration of His birth but also for His presence in our hearts every day.