What is Advent? The definition can be read in two ways
“Advent”: this word comes from Latin (adventus) and means “coming”. What is Advent? There are two translations found in the Christian tradition. The first is the time of waiting for Jesus to come into the world, preceding the annual Christmas holiday. The second one refers to the second coming of Christ to earth, which will take place on the day of final judgment. Advent is a special period in the Catholic Church, which is visible in the decoration of temples and unique liturgical rituals.
How long does Advent last?
How long does Advent last? According to the accepted tradition, Advent covers the four Sundays before Christmas. Depending on the year, the first Sunday of Advent may fall in late November or early December. joyful waiting for the birth of Jesus. Many people make resolutions during Advent, just like during Lent or in the new year. One of the most common resolutions during Advent is to pay more attention to the spiritual zone and give up some pleasures, such as sweets or television.
What is Advent in the Catholic Church?
We already know a little about what Advent is in the Catholic Church. However, it is worth taking a look at the special symbolism that is visible during services in temples at this time. During Advent, priests in the Catholic church wear purple robes (the exception is the third Sunday of Advent, when the robes are pink). During Advent, special services are held, i.e. rorates. Due to the fact that they take place at dawn, people participating in them bring lanterns and candles, the so-called roratki, which are characteristic only for this period of the year.
Advent in church: symbolic candles
The church is full of symbols. Advent in the church is a time when they are particularly visible in the interior design of churches. During Advent, each temple is decorated with four candles, referring to each of the four Sundays of Advent. Starting from the first Sunday of Advent, each subsequent candle is lit until all four are lit at the same time. This takes place on the last Sunday before Jesus’ birth. Each has its own individual character and symbolism.
- the first is called the Candle of Hope or the Prophet’s Candle
- the second is referred to as the Peace Candle or Bethlehem Candle
- the third is the Candle of Joy or the Shepherds Candle
- the fourth one is the Angel Candle or the Love Candle.
When does Advent start in 2023?
When does Advent start in 2023? This question certainly appears often not only in the minds of believers, but also of all those who are waiting for Christmas and love the atmosphere that accompanies us during preparations. This year, 2023, the first Sunday of Advent falls on December 3. Advent ends when we sit down with our loved ones at the Christmas Eve table, i.e. on December 24, after dark.
Advent – what does it mean in our homes?
How do we most often celebrate Advent in our homes? What does this mean, apart from spiritual preparation for the holidays? Advent is a special time not only in churches, but also in our homes. Regardless of whether you are a believer or not, the uplifting pre-Christmas mood affects everyone. At this time, every Polish kitchen is filled with the smell of aromatic gingerbread, which should be prepared well in advance before the holidays. Another must-have item on the list is to create a Christmas atmosphere through unique decorations. Many people decorate their homes with Advent wreaths, and some also use this time to decorate the Christmas tree and hang decorations and lights on their balconies. It is true that it is far from tradition, but who among us does not like to start the Christmas spirit earlier and enjoy it longer?
Advent – Advent calendar as a popular gift
What other symbol is Advent often associated with? Advent calendar – an item probably known to everyone, regardless of age. Various types of Advent calendars dominated the market a few years ago and are one of the most popular gifts for children at that time. Advent calendars for children most often refer to the heroes of their favorite fairy tales. Those for adults are often filled with cosmetics or sweets. An Advent calendar is a nice addition to the time waiting for the holidays and will certainly bring joy to the face of the person receiving it.
See also:
Source: Gazeta
Bruce is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment . He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
