Advent 2020 Begins

The First Sunday of Advent

Nov 29, 2020 – The First Sunday of Advent is particularly important during the Advent Season and many special activities are launched on this day. Advent calendars may be given on this day. Advent calendars are calendars which count the day to Christmas. Usually, these calendars feature a design where each day, or each Sunday, can be opened, after that day has passed, revealing a toy, chocolate or another treat. This makes it fun for the children to observe the Advent Season. On this day, some people may also light the first candle on their Advent Wreath. This candle symbolizes Hope.

The Second Sunday of Advent

Dec 6, 2020 – On the Second Sunday of Advent, the first and second candle is lit and this second candle represents Peace. It also symbolizes all of the preparations that had to be made in order to receive and take care of the Christ child. On this day, Bible readings that relate to Christ and his manger are read.

The Third Sunday of Advent

Dec 13, 2020 – The Third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday, calls for the lighting of the first two candles, as well as the third candle of the Advent Wreath. The candle is known as Joy. On this day, rose-colored vestments are usually worn and the Bible passages read all relate to St. John the Baptist.

The Fourth Sunday of Advent

Dec 20, 2020 – All of the candles are lit on the fourth Sunday. The candle representing this day symbolizes Love. All of the readings on this day pertain to the annunciation of Christ’s birth. When the Advent Wreath has a fifth candle, a candle also known as the Christ Candle, it is lit during the Christmas Eve service.

The Advent Wreath or Crown

Advent Wreaths are often found not only in people’s homes but also in the church. This circular evergreen wreath usually contains 4 candles (and sometimes 5 candles) and each of these candles represents one of the Sundays of Advent. Families who have this wreath in the home will light the candles on each Sunday and say prayers together. It is believed that this tradition goes back to Lutherans in Germany during the 16th century. Sometimes this wreath is known as an Advent Crown.

The Colors of Advent

Purple is usually the primary color associated with Advent because it has historically been the color of royalty and has also been know to reflect penitence and fasting. However, over the years, many different churches have begun using colors other than purple for this holiday. Some churches now use rose or pink colors to represent the joy of the birth of Christ. Other churches may use the color blue to distinguish this liturgical season from Lent.

Daily Reflections
Advent {simplicity} prayers

9 Advent Attitudes by Joe Paprocki