ADVENT
The word ‘advent’ comes from a Latin root which means “coming”. The season of advent then is a period of preparation for the coming of the Lord Jesus. Our expectation for his coming is in two folds which is popularly known as “the two comings of advent”.
The first part of the season (Advent I) the church invites us to prepare our heart for the coming of Jesus as a judge. Towards Jesus’ coming we prepare by destroying what is unchristian in us so that when he comes we may go out to meet him bearing the harvest of good works achieved by grace.
There is a mood shift in second part of the season (Advent II) which begins from 17th – 24th December. Here our focus is now on the nativity of Jesus Christ. The readings begin to talk about God’s prophecy to send a Saviour. Around this time is when the preparations for Christmas actually begins. When we begin to meditate on the wonder of our God becoming a human being like us. The second Advent highlights the gift of Gods son to us at a given time and place in our world. Regardless of how ungodly the world has become or becoming God finds a home amongst us. It is possible that he will find a place in our hearts and life also.
Advent comes with some changes in our Mass and liturgical celebrations. The First change is that the colour of the vestments used at mass will change from Green to Violet or Purple. Secondly, one will notice a wreath with four candles on the Sanctuary. This wreath is called advent wreath. If you are one who is punctual at Mass, you will notice that the Gloria will not be sung.
It is important to know that Advent is the season that begins the Church’s liturgical year. May this joyful season of preparation deepen our relationship with the Lord and make us ready for his coming.
By Fr. Delight Arnold Carbonu
