Advent begins on the Sunday closest to the commemoration of St. Andrew (November 30) and provides a season of four full weeks before Christmas. The First Sunday in Advent begins the new church year. The color is blue, symbolizing hope and anticipation.
The history of Advent as a season of preparation for the celebration of Christ’s nativity goes back to the fourth century. Advent was a time to educate new Christians on the meaning of Christmas.
During these weeks we prepare for Christ’s advent (“coming”) his lowly birth in history, his mysterious coming to us in the present and in his triumphant return at the end of the age.
The season of Advent provides an alternative to the consumerism and mindless busyness that can overwhelm us this time of the year.
On our Liturgical Seasons page on the Northeastern Iowa Synod website, the Synod Home-Life Network has provided several resources to help families prepare to greet the Christ child, including:
- 2014 Advent Calendar
- Advent Adventure Scrolls
- Advent Action Cards
- Advent Countdown Ornaments
- Advent Paper Chain
- Jesse Tree
This month’s Living Faith at Home edition newsletter has information about the Crèche and a Nativity Blessing Litany you can use at home.
Also, check out past December Living Faith at Home editions for more Advent ideas.
You can also find ideas on our Advent Pinterest Board.
We hope these resources add blessings to your Advent preparation and greater depth to your Christmas celebrations.
Pastor Joelle Colville-Hanson
Director for Evangelical Mission, ELCA
