This Sunday is New Year in the Church! It is also the start of the season of Advent. Our young people have been learning about the history of God’s people and the ups and downs of the relationship between Him and His people. His people, as we often do, strayed from their bond with Him but God is always faithful. He sent prophets to call the people back and they told of a rescuer who would bring healing and salvation.
In Advent, rather than prematurely celebrating Christmas, we take time to focus on the darkness of the world in need of the rescuer (the Messiah) when Jesus was born and the darkness of our lives without Him too. This is a time to learn to wait for God like the people of Israel did. If we do this, the joy of Christmas- the coming of the Light of the World will be even greater!
Here are some ways that you and your family can make the most of Advent.
Create/buy an Advent Calendar- Don’t just eat the sweets! Read a short bit of the Advent story and think about it through the day. Share your thoughts at dinner.
Make or buy an Advent Wreath and light it when you are al at home.
Make a Jesse Tree and learn about each figure it depicts
Family Rosary– Advent may be a great time to begin praying as a family after dinner or before bed. Start with a decade of the Rosary (5mins). This will change your lives!
Make an advent playlist (Traditional / Modern) and avoid Christmas movies- save them until Christmas! This is not to kill the fun but increases the anticipation for Christmas!
Attend Mass more often if you are able.
