OC Catholic - Advent

In Catholicism, Advent is the liturgical season that marks the beginning of the Church's liturgical year. It is a time of preparation and anticipation leading up to the celebration of Christmas, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. Here are the key aspects of Advent:

1. Duration: Advent lasts for four weeks, beginning on the Sunday closest to November 30 (the Feast of St. Andrew) and ending on December 24. The season encompasses the four Sundays before Christmas.

2. Liturgical Color: The primary liturgical color for Advent is purple or violet, which symbolizes penance, preparation, and anticipation. On the third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday, the color changes to rose to reflect a sense of joy and hope as the season progresses.

3. Theme of Preparation: Advent is a time of spiritual preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus. It involves reflecting on the meaning of Christ’s coming into the world, both His first coming at Christmas and His second coming at the end of time.

4. Advent Wreath: A common symbol of Advent is the Advent wreath, which consists of a circular garland of evergreen branches with four candles (three purple or violet and one rose). Each candle represents one week of Advent, and a fifth candle, often white, may be added in the center to be lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. The lighting of the candles symbolizes the increasing light of Christ coming into the world.

5. Scriptural Readings: The liturgical readings during Advent focus on themes of hope, prophecy, and preparation. They include readings from the Old Testament that prophesy the coming of the Messiah and readings from the New Testament that prepare for the birth of Jesus and anticipate His second coming.

6. Prayer and Reflection: Advent is a time for increased prayer and reflection. Catholics are encouraged to engage in spiritual practices, such as attending Mass more frequently, participating in Advent retreats or reflection groups, and preparing their hearts for the coming of Christ.

7. Preparation for Christmas: In addition to spiritual preparation, Advent also involves practical preparation for Christmas. This includes preparing for the celebration of Christ’s birth through acts of charity, service to others, and organizing family traditions.

8. Advent Calendar: Many families and individuals use an Advent calendar to mark the days leading up to Christmas. Each day, a door or window is opened to reveal a scripture passage, prayer, or a small gift, helping to build anticipation and focus attention on the season’s spiritual significance.

9. Fasting and Abstinence: While Advent is not as strict as Lent in terms of fasting and abstinence, some Catholics choose to practice self-discipline during the season, such as giving up certain foods or engaging in additional acts of charity.

10. Gaudete Sunday: The third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday, is a day of rejoicing. The term "Gaudete" comes from the Latin word for "rejoice," reflecting the theme of joy and the anticipation of Christ’s coming, which is near.

In summary, Advent in Catholicism is a four-week liturgical season of preparation and anticipation leading up to Christmas. It involves spiritual reflection, prayer, and preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth, as well as a focus on His second coming. Symbols like the Advent wreath, practices such as the use of Advent calendars, and themes of hope and joy characterize this season.