Advent is a beautiful season in the liturgical year, but it is often overshadowed by the busyness of the secular Christmas season. Beginning at the end of November or beginning of December, depending on the year, the four weeks of Advent help us to prepare, spiritually, for a celebration of the Nativity—and Christ’s return, as well. Over the years I’ve developed some ways to engage with this introspective time of the Church year that make it more meaningful for me and my family. Below you will find some of these traditions—maybe one or more of them will enrich your own Advent practices.
