The Season of Advent holds a dual purpose: it is a time to prepare for Christmas, remembering the first coming of God’s Son through the Virgin Mother, and a period to anticipate Christ’s return at the end of time. This season invites joyful expectation and deepens Christian hope.
The Liturgical Significance of Advent
Advent, marking the beginning of the liturgical year, is a profound season of hope. The four weeks before Christmas help the faithful prepare for Jesus’ birth, grow in hope, and welcome Christ’s continual presence. The Church, in this season, embarks on a journey of faith, affirming the mystery that “our God comes to us as human, calling us to move towards Him.”
Advent has two parts:
- First Epoch (Dec 1-16): Focuses on the eschatological themes of Jesus’ second coming, encouraging spiritual awakening and conversion.
- Second Epoch (Dec 17-24): Highlights the first coming of Jesus, the Incarnation, with Mary as the figure who brings forth the Word made flesh.
The season of Advent begins with Vespers on the Sunday closest to December 1 and concludes on Christmas Eve.
Fr G Dolin MMI
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