Advent

Advent 2020

Sunday, November 29th, we begin the season of Advent by celebrating the 1^st Sunday of Advent.  Advent is our time of preparation and time of waiting for the coming of Jesus. It is a rich and powerful season of the Church year.

We often miss Advent's power because these December weeks are full of secular Christmas parties and preparations for Christmas. Each year, the busyness of this season serves to distract us from having an Advent season that truly prepares us for the celebration of Christmas, with all its meaning.

We must see through the eyes of Faith when we look at our Advent preparations for Christmas rather than the screen of Society.  The computer screen, the phone screen, the tv screen or the movie screen.

Through eyes of Faith, we see the birth of the Christ-child, Emmanuel, Prince of Peace. We see those in need, the homeless and the hungry.  The screens only block our view of the truth and keep us separated from what is real. During this Advent Season make special effort to put down, turn off or close out the screen when you are able and connect with family and the Christ child.

Let us begin with the sign of our faith.  

In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

1st Week of Advent, Hope

Dear Jesus, you are the hope in our messy world. This Advent, help us slow down, listen to your voice, and focus on what’s really important. We place our hope in you as we prepare our hearts to celebrate your birth on Christmas. We ask this through Christ of Lord. Amen.

 

2nd Week of Advent, Love

Dear Jesus, may the light of your love always shine in our hearts. As Christmas draws closer, we marvel at your great love for us. Let your love transform every aspect of our lives and touch everyone we encounter. Our hearts are open to you, Jesus. We ask this through Christ of Lord. Amen. 

 

3rd Week of Advent, Joy

Dear Jesus, help us focus on you during this busy season. May we stay aware of the joy you bring into our lives. We want to find you in the everyday moments and come with hearts of gratitude to your manger on Christmas. We ask this through Christ of Lord. Amen.

 

4th Week of Advent, Peace

Dear Jesus, you entered our world on Christmas as the Prince of Peace. This Advent, as we strive to become the-best-version-of-ourselves, fill us with a deep and abiding peace. Help us share that peace with everyone we encounter, especially those who need it most. We ask this through Christ of Lord. Amen.

 

Advent Prayer for Families

Heavenly Father, your son, Jesus, is your greatest gift to us, a great sign of your love. Guide us as we strive to walk in that love together as a family this Advent. As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, bring us closer to each other and to your son. Give us the grace and strength we need every day. Help us to always trust in you. Come, Lord Jesus, lead all people closer to you. Come and dispel the darkness of our world with the light of your love. Amen.