At pre-Christmas church services in Germany, children hold a decorated orange in which a small candle has been inserted. Originated by the Moravian Brethren in eastern Germany, the candle is called the Christingle, which might have derived from either Christ-kindl, meaning "Christ Child," or ...
In general, the wordadventmeans “a coming” or “an arrival.” It comes from the Latin wordadventus,meaning “arrival” or “approach.” This general sense is often used in the context of the beginning or approach of seasons, as in theadvent of spring. ...
On this second Sunday of Advent, I can’t help but think how the Church calendar has influenced my spiritual walk and my writing. BothAdventand Lent create this mysterious space that opens me up to inspiration. This year, my inspiration is taking the form of moments of candle-lighting, hat...
To live the meaning of “prepare.” The meaning of “wait.” A tradition as simple as the lighting of the stately lavender tapers, ring of purples and pink, each boy eagerly anticipating leading the nightly prayer. Or reciting the scripture verse. And do they ever read this verse with ...
Catholic News Agency, 1 Dec. 2023, www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/42900/what-is-advent-anyway-a-cna-explainer. —. “The Beautiful Meaning and Purpose of Advent.” Crosswalk.com, 13 Nov. 2023, www.crosswalk.com/special-coverage/christmas-and-advent/the-beautiful-meaning-and-purpose-of-...
(Amos 9:11-13). When we read about people choosing joy and hope in God’s promises despite their circumstances, the meaning of Advent can take on a deeper meaning (Isa. 9:6-7, 11:1-5;Luke 1:26-2:20). And when the New Testament talks about a second advent, the return of ...
CatholicBrain.com's Advent Program is designed to help young Catholics to understand the true meaning of Christmas while providing resources for parents, teachers and catechists. Pre K through 8th grade Daily Advent Videos Lessons - by Brother Francis Daily Readings, Reflections & Prayers Classroom...
The connection to the earthly harvest also has a further meaning connected to Our Lord’s mention of the great harvest of souls. The Church through an act of penance would pray the Lord of the harvest to send worthy Ministers who are holy and true Shepherds during the Ember Days. The fait...
true reflection of what people call the “Christmas spirit” today.Celebrating St. Nicholas Day is an opportunity to teach our children about the real “Santa Claus” while reminding them that receiving smaller gifts can help them to focus on the full meaning of the Incarnation as it approaches...
The traditional themes of Advent for the four Advent Sundays in the U.K. are the God’s people; The Old Testament prophets; John the Baptist; and Mary the Mother of Jesus. The Advent themes for the Roman Catholic Church are the Second Coming of Christ; John the Baptist; John the Baptis...