Advent Begins

Advent Begins History

Advent is a Christian observance that marks the anticipation and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. It is observed through acts of devotion, prayer, and spiritual reflection. This period is traditionally considered a time of contemplation, during which believers are called to reconcile their faith, reflect on the mystery of incarnation, and anticipate the second coming of Christ. The Advent season involves a variety of religious practices, including the use of Advent calendars, wreaths, and special liturgical themes within worship services.

The observance of Advent can be traced back to the early Christian church and has evolved over many centuries. In Canada, Advent holds an essential place in the religious and cultural practices of the diverse Christian communities that comprise the country's religious landscape. While the historical origins of Advent may vary between denominations, the season is commonly recognized as an opportunity for believers to cultivate spiritual growth and foster a sense of unity within the Christian faith.

In Canada, Advent is observed throughout the various Christian traditions, with each denomination incorporating its distinct liturgical customs. Some popular Advent traditions include lighting the four candles in the Advent each week leading up to Christmas, participating in choral concerts and special worship services, and using Advent calendars to count down the days until Christmas. Additionally, charitable acts of service are often undertaken during this time to embody the spirit of goodwill towards all. The observance of Advent in Canada typically begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and concludes on either December 24th or 25th, depending on the specific religious tradition.

Advent Begins facts

• Each Sunday in Advent has a particular theme the first week represents hope, associated with Christ's coming. The second and third Sundays, which feature the stories about John the Baptist, represent hope and joy. The fourth Sunday, which covers the events that led up to the birth of Jesus, represents love.
• Many churches light a candle on an advent wreath each Sunday to represent each theme. The wreath is either suspended from the ceiling or sits on a table. It is made of evergreen branches and holds four candles - three purple for the first, second and third week of Advent and a pink one for third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. A white Christ candle is placed in the center and will be lit on Christmas.
• A common activity for children is to make Christmas ornaments. Many church Christmas trees are decorated with these ornaments that represent symbols in Christianity, like doves and fish.
• A popular Canadian tradition is the use of an Advent calendar to count down the days until Christmas. These calendars have a small window or box to open for each day of Advent, often containing a small treat, religious message, or festive picture.
• A lesser-known Advent tradition, the Jesse Tree is a visual representation of Jesus' genealogy, as depicted in the Bible. It typically consists of a tree or branch, with ornaments representing figures from the Old Testament, such as Noah, Abraham, and Moses. These ornaments are added one at a time throughout Advent, often accompanied by Bible readings or prayers.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Advent Begins

Top things to do in Canada for Start of Advent

• Decorate your home with evergreens or go to a 'Hanging of the Greens' church service. Church members decorate the church in preparation for Christmas.
• Hang up an advent calendar. Many of these decorative pieces have little doors that open and reveal holiday images or have pockets with small items in them that reflect the season. They are especially popular with children who enjoy opening the little doors to reveal chocolates.
• Decorate your home with Advent colors of purple and pink, and display symbols of the season such as a Nativity scene, Advent wreath, or Christmas lights. Make it a family activity by involving everyone in decorating and creating a festive atmosphere.
• Advent is a time of giving and helping others. Look for local organizations or charities that offer opportunities to volunteer or donate to those in need. This could involve serving at a food bank, participating in a toy drive, or purchasing gifts for a family in need.