Official Website of the
Catholic Diocese of Little Rock
Advent prepares us for coming of the Lord
Published: November 23, 2016
ADVENT RESOURCES
Traditions Advent Wreath Calendar Spiritual Reading Prayers Saints
In addition to the resources above, we offer 28 ways to give of yourself this Advent,
which suggests tangible ways to share your time, talent and treasure with those in need in Arkansas.
"The birth of Jesus brings us the Good News that we are loved immensely and uniquely by God." — Pope Francis, General Audience, St. Peter's Square, Rome, Dec. 18, 2013
The word "advent" originates from the Latin "adventus" which means coming. The season of Advent, therefore, is the preparation for the coming of Jesus, first through the incarnation and ultimately, his coming again in glory at the end of time. This year it runs from Nov. 27 to Dec. 24.
We are invited to reflect on the wondrous mystery of Jesus' birth as well as look with joy and hope to his return. We are called to repent of our sins, pray and draw ourselves closer to God.
Advent also marks the beginning of the liturgical year in the Catholic Church. Unlike the secular year, which marks the passage of time, the liturgical year celebrates the sacred mysteries of the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus.
The liturgical color of Advent is violet or purple, except on the third Sunday of Advent when rose vestments may be worn. The purple represents the prayer, penance and sacrificial good works that help us prepare.
The third Sunday of Advent is also known as Gaudete Sunday. "Gaudete" is Latin for "rejoice," which is the first word of the entrance antiphon. The celebrant wears rose vestments to signify the anticipatory joy that the waiting is half over and Christmas is near.
