New Delhi: December is here, marking the end of the year. December not only marks year-end, but it also holds a special place in the Christian calendar. ‘Tis the Season,’ where people rejoice and wait for Christmas. But before Christmas comes the season of ‘Advent’. What is Advent? Advent is a season celebrated by many Christian groups. It is a time for waiting and getting ready for two events: the birth of Jesus at Christmas and his return at the Second Coming.
In this article, let us learn everything about the Advent Season and when it takes place.
The Meaning and Significance of Advent
Advent is a period of preparation and anticipation leading up to Christmas. It marks the four Sundays before December 25. Every week, Advent emphasises themes like peace, joy, love, hope, helping others, and preparing for Christmas. Advent comes from the Latin word “adventus”, which means ‘coming’ or ‘arrival’. Advent is important for Christians as it is part of celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
During this time, Christians reflect, pray, and prepare spiritually. They often follow traditions like lighting an Advent candle.
Advent Traditions and Symbols
Advent is a Christian season representing the coming of Jesus Christ and the hope of his return.
Advent is a time to prepare for Christmas. During this period, Christians reflect, pray, and focus on their spiritual lives. It is also a time to look forward to the Second Coming of Christ. People use this time to prepare their hearts for Christmas’s joy.
Advent includes lighting an Advent candle on the four Sundays leading up to Christmas. The candles are usually blue or purple to represent hope, preparation, and love. A pink or rose candle symbolises joy. The final white candle symbolises purity, renewal, godliness, light, and victory.
Advent Calendar: A Countdown to Christmas
The Advent calendar tradition started around the 1850s. It usually has 24 doors or boxes to open, one for each day of December leading up to Christmas Day. Many families and individuals use Advent calendars to count down to Christmas. Each door or compartment reveals a small surprise or a piece of chocolate, which builds excitement for the holiday. However, Advent calendars have a more meaningful purpose than just providing treats.
When is Advent in 2024?
The Advent calendar focuses on the four Sundays before Christmas. Advent starts on a Sunday between November 27 and December 3 each year. For 2024, the Advent Sundays are:
First Sunday of Advent: December 1 (Start of Advent 2024)
Second Sunday of Advent: December 8
Third Sunday of Advent: December 15
Fourth Sunday of Advent: December 22 (Advent ends on Christmas Eve)
Advent marks the four Sundays before Christmas, signifying the anticipation of Jesus’ birth and Second Coming. It’s a time of reflection, prayer, and preparing one’s heart for Christmas. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
