Advent is a sacred time in the Catholic Church that marks the beginning of the liturgical year. It is a season of hope, reflection, and joyful anticipation as we prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus Christ. Through prayer, Scripture, and meaningful traditions, families are invited to slow down and focus on the true meaning of Christmas.
In 2025, the Advent Sundays are as follows:
- First Sunday of Advent – November 30
- Second Sunday of Advent – December 7
- Third Sunday of Advent – December 14
- Fourth Sunday of Advent – December 21
Each Sunday marks a step in the spiritual journey toward Christmas, with themes of hope, peace, joy, and love.
Advent Activities for Families
Here are some simple and faith-filled ways families can celebrate Advent together:
1. Create an Advent Wreath: Light one candle each Sunday and say a short prayer or read a Scripture passage as a family.
2. Daily Advent Devotions: Use a family-friendly devotional or online resource to reflect together each evening.
3. Kindness Calendar: Make an Advent calendar with daily acts of kindness like “Help a sibling,” “Donate a toy,” or “Say a prayer for someone.”
4. Attend Parish Events: Participate in Advent Masses, reconciliation services, or parish missions to grow spiritually as a family.
5. Jesse Tree: Create ornaments representing biblical figures and stories leading to Jesus’ birth. Hang one each day and read the Scripture together.
6. Advent Music Night: Sing or listen to hymns like O Come, O Come, Emmanuel and reflect on their meaning.
7. Set Up a Prayer Corner: Designate a small space with candles, a Bible, and Advent symbols for quiet prayer time.
8. Send Faith-Filled Cards: Write Christmas cards with Scripture verses or Advent messages to share the joy of the season.
9. Bake & Share: Make treats together and deliver them to someone in need, teaching generosity and compassion.
10. Nativity Crafts: Create a nativity scene using paper, clay, or recycled materials and retell the story of Jesus’ birth.
