A Note from Rob ...
All About Advent
The season of Advent has been with us since the fourth century, although it has not been a part of the liturgical observance of all
denominations and churches. With the mixing of Christmas and Advent during the weeks leading up to Christmas Day, there is
often confusion of the two. Here are the basics of Advent:
When. Advent marks the beginning of the church year. It begins with the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day and ends
Christmas Eve. If Christmas Day falls on a Sunday, Advent will last four full weeks. If Christmas Day falls on any other day of
the week, Advent will last less than four weeks. If Christmas falls on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday, all of Advent will be
in December. If Christmas falls on any other day of the week, Advent will begin in November.
What. Advent comes from the Latin word, adventus, meaning "coming." It is a season to prepare for the coming of Christ in
various meanings: the promised coming of the Messiah to the Jews, the coming of Jesus being born in Bethlehem, the promised
return of the risen Christ in final victory, and the continual coming of Christ into the lives and hearts of believers.
Liturgical Context. Advent, which marks the beginning of the liturgical year, is part of the cycle of seasons that includes
Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany, all related in some fashion to the coming of Jesus. That cycle is followed by Lent, Holy
Week, Easter, and the long Pentecost season.
History. Advent began in France in the fourth century. In various times and locations of the church, Advent has been observed
for three, four, and six weeks leading to Christmas. Some churches today are experimenting with incorporating Advent themes
and symbols in worship during the weeks prior to the actual start of Advent in the hope that they can avoid the conflict of
Advent versus Christmas observance during the immediate weeks prior to Christmas.
Color. The color for Advent has traditionally been purple. Some churches have adopted blue for Advent. In practice, however,
as churches increasingly incorporate the symbols and decorations of Christmas during Advent, more and more we see red, green,
and gold appearing. The United Methodist Book of Worship upholds the traditional color of purple for Advent, signifying
penitence and royalty; but it also allows blue, the color of hope.
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