Advent is a time of expectation and preparation for the anniversary of the birth of Jesus, the Holy Babe of Bethlehem, that we celebrate on Christmas Day.
An advent wreath is a visual way to look forward to the Holy Babe's birth through the symbolism of lighted candles. I find it very inspiring to light the candles in the evening as soon as dusk falls.
The act of lighting the candles reminds me that the Light of the world to so many never fades and as the weeks pass in expectation of December 24th and 25th more and more light is produced by more candles being lit. The first Sunday just one candle is lit and each successive Sunday one more is added till all are lit by the 4th Sunday.
As there are four Sundays in Advent you will need 4 candles, one for each of the Sundays, and a 5th candle for Christmas Day.
Another preparation I make this time of year is the holly wreath for the front door. You can intertwine holly and ivy and pine sprigs on a wreath form or make you own by bending a wire clothes hanger into a round shape and tying on the sprigs securely. Then adding decorations such as small balls or tiny pine combs, or shiny red ribbons.
The culmination for me in my preparations is arranging the manger scene in my front window. This holy act really is a special time for me to reflect on the eternal message of Christmas.
Advent Meditation
Christmas Eve Prayer
Christmas Prayer
Christmas Prayer for Children
New Year's Prayer and Meditation
Article by Susan Helene Kramer
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