By Brea Cannon
Liturgical Rhythm of Life
Advent is one of the most observed liturgical seasons for most Christians. It is a time of great preparation and anticipation for the Feast of the Nativity. Advent is filled with many significant activities, customs and decorations that originate as a form of worship or a symbol of faith for Christians throughout the centuries.
As homes and hearts are prepared for the coming seasons of Advent, let us take a deeper look into a couple of the symbols that will adorn our homes and an Advent tradition practiced around the world. As you and your family begin liturgical season preparation, consider the liturgical meanings and symbols for many traditions — maybe even try a new tradition this year.
Advent wreath
The Advent wreath originated a few hundred years ago in eastern Germany. In the 16th century, the custom started of using lights as a symbol of Advent.
Traditionally, appropriate candles are lit, representing the four weeks of Advent. Each Sunday of Advent, one more candle is lit to illuminate a bright glow. Families gather around the Advent wreath, candles are lit and other lights are extinguished to enter into prayer for the preparation of the Christmas season. Advent songs are sung, such as “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” or songs to honor Mary.
“The symbol of the Advent wreath reminds the faithful of the Old Testament, when the world was ‘sitting in darkness and in the shadow of death,’ (Luke 2:79); when the prophets, illuminated by God, announced the redeemer; and when the hearts of man glowed with the desire for the Messiah. The wreath — in ancient symbol of victory and Glory — symbolizes the ‘fulfillment of time’ in the coming of Christ and the glory of his birth” (Fr. Francis X Weiser, S.J.).
As preparations are made and the Advent wreath is brought out, spend some time reflecting on the symbol of light — both of this world and that of the next. Remember also the faithful men and women of the Old Testament that awaited the Savior in hope.
Preparing a manger
The custom of the nativity scene or creche originated in France but spread throughout the world. It is a symbol of faith that depicts the humble beginning of the life of our savior. One tradition that dates back generations involves children preparing a crib in the manger for Baby Jesus.
Tradition has it that children place a piece of straw, or even strips of yellow construction paper, in the manger for Jesus. Each piece of “bedding” serves as a token of good deed or a prayer intention the child offers up for the infant Jesus throughout the day.
On Christmas day, when Jesus is placed in the crib, he has a cozy manger filled with love and goodness.
Advent letters
Another custom practiced around the world is Advent letters. Children and adults alike, write or color pictures to be left in a windowsill or on a fireplace on the eve of St. Nicholas Day (Dec. 5). These letters are addressed to the Christ child and contain prayer intentions and hopes of the Christmas season. Traditionally, it is believed that St. Nicholas and the angels take the intentions up to heaven. On the day to follow, St. Nicholas day is a great day to share a little cheer and secretly perform a good deed or two for loved ones and those in need. Whether young or old, offering prayers and intentions or performing acts of love and service during the Advent season is a great way to unite yourself closer to our Lord in the Christ child.
With family gatherings this time of year it is a great opportunity to start new or continue traditions of the past. Plan ahead for some Advent traditions — with Advent beginning around Thanksgiving, don’t wait to plan how you will prepare your heart and home for the infant Jesus. Time seems to pass quickly this time of the year — take a pause and embrace the beauty and tradition that fills the season with light and hope. Don’t rush to Christmas and forget to properly prepare for our Lord in this season of light.
Brea Cannon is a Diocese of Evansville native and member of St. Peter Parish in Montgomery with her husband, three children and extended family.