Advent is the beginning of the Church Year. It begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day and ends on Christmas Eve. The focus of the entire season is preparation to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Advent also symbolizes the spiritual journey of individuals and a congregation, as we affirm that Christ has come and is present in the world today.
Advent is marked by the spirit of expectation, anticipation, preparation, and longing. This season of hope, allows us to better enjoy Christmas, which lasts until Epiphany. In congregational worship, the Advent wreath is the central teaching symbol of the season. In your home, there are many opportunities to reflect on this sacred time. When we exchange the sign of peace as a community, we pray others will experience the peace that only Christ can bring into our hearts and lives. We invite you to spread the joy and promise of Christmas with our community and guests, making his peace and joy a reality in your life.
ADVENT BEGINS: SUN, DEC 3 IMMACULATE CONCEPTION: FRI, DEC 8 CHRISTMAS EVE: SUN, DEC 24 CHRISTMAS DAY: MON, DEC 25 MARY, MOTHER OF GOD FEAST DAY: MON, JAN 1 EPIPHANY OF THE LORD: SAT, JAN 6