Advent Season is here

It is unknown when Advent or the preparation for Christmas first began. 

Advent Wreath

Some may even claim it goes back to the time of the Twelve Apostles or that it was founded by Saint Peter himself. 

Advent marks the beginning of the Western liturgical year and starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas for Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Moravian, Presbyterian, and Methodist calendars. 

The theme of readings and teachings during Advent is often the preparation for the Second Coming while also commemorating the First Coming of Christ at Christmas. 

As with many other religious rites and rituals, the practices of the past are incorporated and made current by present day communities and congregations. 

Practices of Advent include keeping an Advent calendar, lighting an Advent wreath, praying an Advent daily devotional. 

It includes other ways of preparing for Christmas, such as setting up yuletide decorations and a Christmas tree. 

This holiday season we light the first candle of Advent we are reminded that hope is one of the best aspects of our humanity. 

Peace to all always.