The celebrations of Advent mark the anticipatory period before the arrival of Christmas.
Advent starts around four weeks before Christmas Day. The celebration marks a preparation period for the birth of Jesus Christ.
The word 'advent' in English means the arrival of an event or person and, besides being an anticipatory term for Christmas lovers, Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical year (Christian year) observed mostly in Western churches.
However, the word 'advent' originated from the Latin word 'adventus', which means 'coming' or 'arrival' referring to the anticipation of the second coming of Christ, as well as commemorating his birth in Bethlehem.
Just as ancient Jews longed for the coming of the Messiah, modern Christians yearn for his Second Advent.
The History Of Advent
According to St. Gregory of Tours, the celebration of Advent began in the fifth century when Bishop Perpetus directed that Christians must fast three times per week, from St. Martin's Day on November 11 until December 24.
This practice remained limited to the diocese of Tours until the Council of Macon, in 581, when it gradually spread throughout France and, later, the Christian world.
The Nativity Fast, or the Fast of December, is associated as a time of penitence, as Advent is both a time of sorrow and joy.
Advent was also known as 'Lent of St. Martin' as the practice started in the fifth century. According to St. Gregory of Tours, Bishop Perpetuus directed the initial fasting period to start from St. Martin's Day on November 11, till Christmas Eve.
The fasting tradition experienced decline from the 13th century.
Symbols Of Advent
Advent is a long preparatory month with different traditions and rituals symbolizing various significant beliefs, practices, and often the phases of Jesus's life.
An Advent crown is a significant addition to the decorations besides floral wreaths. It symbolizes the passage of four Sundays of Advent and is a necessary addition in churches.
The Advent candle symbolizes the four weeks and four Sundays of Advent. Each day, the candle is burnt a little to mark the passing of days before Christmas.
The color purple is very auspicious in Advent as it signifies the penitential spirit and is used in various forms in the celebration of Advent, such as using a purple candle.
How To Celebrate Advent
Advent is a month-long preparatory celebration for Christmas, which is celebrated through various events and practices.
Fasting is an early form of celebrating Advent, and many people still follow the practice, supplementary to prayers.
Reading Bible scriptures is another prominent way of celebrating the festival.
Making Advent ornaments, wreaths, and wrapping gifts are a few other activities people indulge in during the season.
The Significance Of Advent Candles
Lighting Advent candles is a way to symbolize hope, love, joy, and peace. All of these are signified using five candles and burnt respectively to prepare for the day.
The first candle, preferably a purple candle, is burnt on the first Sunday, representing hope.
The second purple candle is lit on the second Sunday, representing love and faith in the Lord.
The third one, a rose-colored candle, is lighted on the third Sunday to represent joy. This third Sunday is also known as Gaudete Sunday ('gaudate' means rejoice), with pink representing the joyful mood of this celebration.
The fourth candle, a purple one, must be lit on the fourth Sunday, representing peace and remembering the creator.
The fifth and last candle is lit on Christmas Eve, to celebrate Jesus's birth.
Advent FAQs
What is an Advent promise?
An Advent promise is a promise made during this season. It could be a promise made to a child or a simple oath to spread kindness.
What are the four candles of Advent?
The four candles of Advent represent the four weeks of preparation before Christmas Day.
What goes on a Jesse Tree?
Ornaments are added to the Jesse tree to symbolize the various phases of Jesus Christ's life journey. As the days proceed towards Christmas in Advent, more ornaments are added to the tree.
What day is Jesus's birthday?
December 25 is celebrated as Jesus's birthday, also known as Christmas Day.
When does Advent start?
Advent starts on a Sunday, four weeks before Christmas. It was originally started in the fifth century, by Bishop Perpetus.
How do we observe Advent?
Advent follows a series of events that proceed until Christmas Eve, with celebrations such as gingerbread baking, preparing the Jesse tree or Christmas tree, visiting church, making Advent wreaths, hanging decorations, and buying gifts.
Why is Advent special?
Advent reminds Christians of the true, sacred meaning of Christmas, as the birth of Christ.
We Want Your Photos!
Do you have a photo you are happy to share that would improve this article?
With over 3+ years of professional experience, Olanrewaju is a certified SEO Specialist and Content Writer. He holds a BSc in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos. Throughout his dynamic career, Olanrewaju has successfully taken on various roles with startups and established organizations. He has served as a Technical Writer, Blogger, SEO Specialist, Social Media Manager, and Digital Marketing Manager. Known for his hardworking nature and insightful approach, Olanrewaju is dedicated to continuous learning and improvement.
1) Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. If you purchase using the Buy Now button we may earn a small commission. This does not influence our choices. Prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published but we cannot guarantee that on the time of reading. Please note that Kidadl is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content.
2) At Kidadl, we strive to recommend the very best activities and events. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so it’s important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate for all children and families or in all circumstances. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong.
3) Because we are an educational resource, we have quotes and facts about a range of historical and modern figures. We do not endorse the actions of or rhetoric of all the people included in these collections, but we think they are important for growing minds to learn about under the guidance of parents or guardians.