“Somebody is coming, and it isn’t Santa”
By Deacon Rod Knight
I hope that this season of preparation directs our hearts and minds to Christ’s second coming at the end of time and to the anniversary of Our Lord’s birth on Christmas. Don’t let the Advent wreath become just another tradition without any meaning behind it! Use this time as a family to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the Advent season.
Make lighting the Advent Wreath a time for meaningful connections and discussions with your loved ones. These prayers add a touch of spirituality and help you all reflect on the season in a more profound way. It’s not just about going through the motions—it’s about actively engaging and growing together.
Start with the Advent Wreath Blessing: Dear Jesus, as we light the candle(s) on this Advent wreath, may the light of your presence bring joy to our hearts. Bless our family and our friends and be with all those who are in need this holiday season. Amen.
The First Week of Advent: December 1, 2024:
*light the first purple candle
Scripture Reflection: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined.” Isaiah 9:2
*pause for reflection
Advent Wreath Prayer: Dear Jesus, you are the hope in our messy world. This Advent, help us slow down, listen to your voice, and focus on what’s really important. We place our hope in you as we prepare our hearts to celebrate your birth on Christmas. Amen.
The Second Week of Advent: December 8, 2024:
*light the first and second purple candles
Scripture Reflection: “Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to be delivered. And she gave birth to her first-born son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” Luke 2:4-7
*pause for reflection
Say the Advent Wreath Prayer.
The Third Week of Advent: December 15, 2024:
*light the first and second purple candles and the rose/pink candle
Scripture Reflection: “And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had
heard and seen, as it had been told them.” Luke 2:20
*pause for reflection
Say the Advent Wreath Prayer.
The Fourth Week of Advent: December 22, 2024:
*light all four candles
Scripture Reflection: “And the angel said to them, “Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people; for to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11
*pause for reflection
Say the Advent Wreath Prayer.
These prayers/blessing is from the Dynamic Catholic website:
dynamiccatholic.com/advent/advent-wreath-prayers.html#week-three
Also a 2024 Daily Reflection Advent Calendar can be downloaded at:
usccb.org/resources/2024-advent-calendar
Calendario de Adviento 2024:
usccb.org/resources/calendario-de-adviento-2024
Remember the reason for this season, peace on Earth and Come Lord Jesus!