Advent

Advent Begins History

Advent serves as a time of preparation and anticipation leading up to Christmas. This observance acknowledges the dual nature of Christ's first coming and his anticipated return, with its primary focus on spiritual reflection and renewal. The observance lasts for four weeks, incorporating various practices, symbols, and traditions across different Christian denominations, including Advent wreaths, calendars, and special prayers.

The tradition of observing Advent dates back to the fourth century. Initially observed as a period of fasting and penance, the practice has since evolved to reflect the diversity of Christian communities celebrating the season. Advent is typically observed across numerous Christian denominations, including but not limited to Roman Catholic, Episcopal, and Lutheran churches. Each tradition may have unique customs and practices during this time, which ultimately share a common theme of spiritual anticipation and reflection leading up to Christmas.

The observance of Advent is marked by various customs and traditions, such as lighting candles on an Advent wreath and using Advent calendars to count down the days until Christmas. Specific practices may differ between denominations and even among individual parishes or families, but the overall emphasis remains on preparing oneself spiritually for the celebration of Christ's birth and his promised return. The American observance of Advent generally begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day, which can fall between November 27 and December 3, depending on the year.

Advent facts

• Each Sunday in Advent has a particular theme the first week represents hope, associated with Christ's coming. The second and third Sundays, which feature the stories about John the Baptist, represent hope and joy. The fourth Sunday, which covers the events that led up to the birth of Jesus, represents love.
• Many churches light a candle on an advent wreath each Sunday to represent each theme. The wreath is either suspended from the ceiling or sits on a table. It is made of evergreen branches and holds four candles - three purple for the first, second and third week of Advent and a pink one for third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. A white Christ candle is placed in the center and will be lit on Christmas.
• A common activity for children is to make Christmas ornaments. Many church Christmas trees are decorated with these ornaments that represent symbols in Christianity, like doves and fish.

In the News and Trending in Italy for Advent

Top things to do in Italy for Start of Advent

• Decorate your home with evergreens or go to a 'Hanging of the Greens' church service. Church members decorate the church in preparation for Christmas.
• Hang up an advent calendar. Many of these decorative pieces have little doors that open and reveal holiday images or have pockets with small items in them that reflect the season. They are especially popular with children who enjoy opening the little doors to reveal chocolates.