As the calendar inches towards December, many Christian communities worldwide turn their focus to Advent Sunday, a tradition that heralds the start of the Christmas season. This observance, which can occur at the end of November or the beginning of December, marks the countdown to Christmas Day.
Understanding Advent
The term “advent” in modern English denotes the beginning of a new period or the introduction of something novel, as in “the advent of technology.” Its roots, however, are deeply entrenched in Latin, where “Adventus” signifies arrival, specifically in the context of the lead-up to Christmas.
Historical Origins
Advent’s origins trace back to the fourth century, initially spanning a forty-day period known as the “forty days of St Martin,” starting on November 11. Over time, this was condensed to the four-week stretch we recognize today.
Medieval Observances
During the Middle Ages, Advent mirrored Lent with its emphasis on fasting and penance. Known as “Adventus,” this period included “Ember Days,” observed through fasting on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Abstinence extended beyond food to activities such as gambling and travel, with weddings also prohibited. Exceptions were made for the vulnerable, such as pregnant women and the physically laborious. The practice of fasting served a dual purpose: spiritual preparation and practical conservation of resources for the Christmas feast.
Contemporary Advent Practices
In contrast to its austere medieval counterpart, modern Advent is characterized by joyous anticipation, especially within Anglican and Lutheran traditions. While initially a practice of traditional denominations, Advent has gained popularity among more diverse Christian groups, each emphasizing different aspects, like the hope of Christ’s return.
The Liturgical Season
Advent is officially marked by the four Sundays preceding Christmas. These Sundays, beginning with Advent Sunday, can fall between November 27 and December 3, depending on the weekday of Christmas. The season culminates on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, depending on church practices.
Sundays of Advent
The liturgical calendar during Advent varies between churches. Many follow the Revised Common Lectionary for Bible readings, which focus on the themes of Christ’s second coming and his nativity, progressively exploring biblical prophecies and narratives leading to Bethlehem.
Advent Candles Tradition
An increasingly popular tradition is the Advent wreath with five candles, originating in Lutheran Germany. Each Sunday, an additional candle is lit, culminating with a central candle on Christmas Eve or Day. This practice symbolically reflects Jesus as the “Light of the World,” echoing the Jewish menorah tradition.
Advent Readings
Common selections for Advent readings include passages from Isaiah and Psalms, focusing on themes of peace, expectation, and salvation. New Testament readings often highlight the anticipation of Christ’s return, enhancing the season’s reflective nature.
The Anglican Collect for Advent
The Anglican Church offers a specific collect prayer for Advent Sunday: “Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of darkness and to put on the armour of light, now in the time of this mortal life, in which your Son Jesus Christ came to us in great humility; that on the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious majesty to judge the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.”
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
