First Sunday of Advent

Advent Begins History

Advent is a significant period in the Christian liturgical calendar, observed by many denominations as a time of preparation and anticipation for celebrating the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas. It is marked with a combination of rituals, symbols, and traditions, which include the lighting of Advent candles, the display of Advent calendars, and the singing of Advent hymns. The central focus of the Observance is the spiritual preparation for the coming of the Messiah, both in terms of remembering the events leading up to the birth of Jesus and reflecting on the promise of His return.

The term "Advent" comes from the Latin "adventus," meaning "coming" or "arrival," and Christians have followed the Observance since the early days of the church. In the United Kingdom, the Advent season has been one of the cornerstones of British Christian tradition, closely linked with the heritage and practices of the established Church of England. Over the years, while adapting to the needs of a modern and diverse society, Advent has remained a notable time in the religious calendar of the UK, with its customs and symbols shared among many different Christian communities.

In the United Kingdom, Advent is commonly observed by attending special church services, lighting the Advent wreath, opening Advent calendars, and participating in charity events or acts of kindness throughout the period. These customs help create a sense of unity and spiritual growth while strengthening ties between individual churches and the wider community. Advent typically begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day, known as Advent Sunday, and lasts until Christmas Eve. By engaging with these traditions and rituals, both longstanding and modern, the people of the United Kingdom can immerse themselves in the spirit of the season and fully appreciate the significance of the incoming Christmas celebration.

First Sunday of 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.
• The word Advent is derived from the Latin word "adventus," which means "arrival" or "coming." It signifies the arrival of Jesus as the promised Messiah.
• In the British Anglican and Catholic traditions, the liturgical color for Advent is purple or violet, symbolizing repentance and preparation. Some British churches also use "Sarum blue," a softer shade, to distinguish Advent from the more somber season of Lent.

In the News and Trending in the UK for First Sunday of Advent

Top things to do in the UK 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.
• Take a walk or drive around the major cities or towns in the UK to view the festive decorations and Christmas lights. London, in particular, is known for its spectacular Christmas displays.
• Ice skating rinks pop up in many cities during Advent, including iconic locations such as the Natural History Museum in London and Edinburgh's Princes Street Gardens.