Advent

Embracing the Advent Season: 

A Time of Hope, Joy, and Reflection

ADVENT Week 1

Dear God,

As we light the candles and count the days,

Help us understand Advent in so many ways.

We're waiting for Christmas, full of delight,

But in our hearts, let's make everything right.

For hope, peace, joy, and love we pray,

Guide us through Advent in your special way.

Each candle we light, a symbol so bright,

Reminds us of Jesus, the true Christmas light.

Help us be patient, not just in waiting,

But in kindness and love, never hesitating.

As we prepare for the Savior's birth,

May our hearts be filled with joy and mirth.

In this season of giving and sharing,

Teach us compassion, always caring.

Advent is here, a time to prepare,

For the greatest gift, beyond compare.

Thank you, God, for this special time,

As we wait for Christmas, so sublime.

Bless our families, our friends so dear,

In this season of Advent, bring us near.

Amen.

Advent - Week 1

On Sunday we celebrate the first week of Advent. Advent is the beginning of the Church’s liturgical/Mass year and we begin Year B of the Church. This means, when we celebrate Masses together, the Gospel readings are taken from the Lectionary B (Mass Book), from the Gospel of Mark from now until the end of November 2024.

On Sunday the first candle will be lit. The candle of HOPE. Think of the ways we can bring hope into our lives and the lives of others.

CLARE BISBY

FAITH LEADER

As we embark on the beautiful journey of Advent, we are filled with anticipation and excitement, cherishing the opportunity to reflect on the true meaning of this sacred season. Advent, derived from the Latin word "adventus," meaning "coming," is a time of preparation and joyful expectation as we await the celebration of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

During the holiday hustle and bustle, we need to pause and create a space for the spiritual significance of Advent to unfold in our lives and the lives of our children. Here are some meaningful ways you can embrace the Advent season as a family:

1. Advent Wreath Rituals:

   - Set up an Advent wreath at home and light one candle each week leading up to Christmas.

   - Use this time for prayer, reflection, and discussion about the themes of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

2. Daily Devotions:

   - Incorporate a brief daily devotional into your family routine. Reflect on scripture, share thoughts, and express gratitude for the blessings in your lives.

3. Acts of Kindness:

   - Foster a spirit of giving by engaging in acts of kindness as a family. Encourage your children to think of others and spread joy in the community.

   - Discuss the importance of sharing our blessings with those who may be in need during this season.

4. Nativity Storytelling:

   - Read and discuss the Nativity story as a family, emphasising the miraculous gift of Jesus' birth.

   - Encourage your children to create their own Nativity scenes or participate in a live Nativity play.

5. Advent Calendar Activities:

   - Include elements like prayer, acts of kindness, and family traditions that reinforce the significance of Advent.

6. Attend Advent Liturgies:

   - Participate in the special Advent liturgies and services at our school and local parish.

7. Reflect on God's Gift:

   - Take time to reflect individually and as a family on the incredible gift of God's love through the birth of Jesus.

   - Express gratitude for the blessings in your lives and discuss ways to share God's love with others.

As we come together as a school community, let us embrace the true spirit of Advent, fostering a sense of hope, joy, and love in our homes and in the hearts of our children. May this season be a time of spiritual growth, deepening our connection to the profound message of Christmas.

Wishing you and your family a blessed Advent season!

In faith and community,

Clare Bisby

Faith Leader