First Sunday of Advent

The First Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of the Church's liturgical year. It is a day of new beginnings, when Christians around the world light the first candle on the Advent wreath and begin the season of preparation for Christmas.

The Meaning of Advent

"Advent" comes from the Latin adventus, meaning "coming" or "arrival." The season focuses on two comings of Christ:

1. The historical coming: We prepare to celebrate Christ's birth in Bethlehem
2. The future coming: We prepare for Christ's return in glory at the end of time

This dual focus gives Advent its unique character—both joyful anticipation and sober watchfulness.

Wake Up!

The readings for the First Sunday of Advent often carry a theme of watchfulness:

"Do this, knowing the time, that it is already time for you to awaken out of sleep, for salvation is now nearer to us than when we first believed. The night is far gone, and the day is near." — Romans 13:11-12

We are called to spiritual alertness, to shake off complacency, to prepare our hearts for the Lord's coming.

The Advent Wreath

The Advent wreath, with its four candles (three purple, one pink) and evergreen circle, is a beloved symbol of the season:

• The circle represents eternity and God's unending love
• The evergreen represents hope and eternal life
• The candles represent the light of Christ dispelling darkness
• One candle is lit each Sunday, building anticipation as Christmas approaches

The first candle is often called the "Prophecy Candle" or "Hope Candle."

A Counter-Cultural Season

In a culture that begins Christmas celebrations earlier each year, Advent offers a counter-rhythm. The Church asks us to wait, to prepare, to anticipate—not to rush ahead. The joy of Christmas is sweeter for those who have kept the fast of Advent.

New Year's Day of Faith

As the secular new year begins on January 1, the Church's new year begins on the First Sunday of Advent. It is a time to:

• Reflect on the past year's spiritual journey
• Set intentions for growth in faith
• Renew commitment to prayer and devotion
• Begin again with hope

The liturgical year stretches before us, full of possibility.