The word Advent is derived from the Latin – advenire – to arrive.  It is a time of waiting and preparation for the arrival of Christ during the four weeks before Christmas.  It starts on the Sunday nearest to November 30th, St Andrew’s Day.

Advent is a season of awe, joy and longing, which used to be kept as a solemn fast.  It has now become a time to make practical as well as religious preparations.  Most people spend much time present buying, cooking and decorating, even before the start of Advent.

In Church we light candles on an Advent wreath.  It is made of evergreens to symbolize hope and new life.  Four candles, three purple and one pink, are lit successively during the four weeks.  Purple represents penance and sorrow and pink is for coming joy.  At Christmas they are replaced by white candles as a symbol of victory and fulfillment.  Children at home light Advent candles and open Advent calendars as a countdown to Christmas. 

Many of our Christmas traditions have been adapted from pre-Christian ceremonies – gift giving, candle lighting, decorating with greenery – all date back to ancient times.  There are many legends surrounding the Christmas tree and the varied decorations that may adorn it.  The singing of carols has told the story of the Nativity for hundreds of years, but the sending of cards only dates back to Victorian times.  Every culture and even every family has its own traditions which make Christmas a very special time.  Perhaps we can take a little time during Advent to reflect upon why we are doing all these things.

When I was asked to write about Advent, two words came into my mind – Mystery and Miracle.  I looked up their meanings in the dictionary:

Miracle – an event that is contrary to the
Established laws of nature and attributed
to supernational causes.

Mystery – a truth that is divinely revealed
but otherwise unknowable.

Here we have Mystery and Miracle – The Word is made flesh and makes His dwelling among us.

We at All Saints wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas.