The Advent season begins today. Advent is from the Latin word ‘Adventus’, meaning “coming”. ‘Adventus’ is the translation of the ancient Greek word ‘Parousia’ meaning “presence”, “arrival” or “official visit”. It is commonly used to refer to the Second Coming of Christ. Advent is a preparatory season, a season of looking forward and waiting for something greater; both for the annual celebration of the event of Christ’s birth and for the time when Christ will come again.
May this season of anticipation, Advent fills your heart and home with hope, peace, joy and love.
Wishing you and your family a blessed Advent!
“Advent is a time of “consolation and hope,” the beginning of a new liturgical year, which brings with it the newness of our God, who is the ‘God of every consolation.’ Life, should not be spent in waiting for things which may never arrive; but in expectation, in the desire for the Lord “who always brings newness.” This does not mean waiting around doing nothing, but “being active in love.” Christians, “are called to keep and spread the joy of anticipation: we await God, Who loves us infinitely, and Who, at the same time, waits for us” to be with Him forever in Heaven. I hope you will live out Advent in this way, as a time of consoling newness and joyful expectation.” – Pope Francis