Advent always begins four Sundays before Christmas, on the Sunday closest to the feast of St Andrew the Apostle (November 30th). Advent is the beginning of the liturgical calendar year and has been since the 900’s. The word Advent comes from the Latin word adventus, which means coming. It’s a time for preparation and anticipation of the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ. To assist you in preparing your students during Advent, I have attached various resources. You may create an Advent Wreathe for your room as your prayer focus during this special church season. 

In our church there is an Advent wreathe with four candles which represent the four weeks of Advent. One candle will be lit each weekend. The first candle, which is purple, will be lit this weekend and it symbolises hope. It is sometimes called the “Prophecy Candle” in remembrance of the prophets, especially Isaiah, who foretold the birth of Christ. It represents the expectation felt in anticipation of the coming Messiah.

2022 has been another difficult year for everyone, however we have always been hopeful!

This is an extract from Charles Péguy's poem regarding hope.

“I am, says God, master of the three virtues: Faith, Charity and Hope.
Faith is like a faithful wife.
Charity is the ardent mother.
But Hope is a little girl.

I am, says God, the master of virtues.
Faith is she who remains steadfast through centuries and centuries.
Love is she who gives herself during centuries and centuries.

But my little Hope is she who rises every morning.

I am, says God, the Lord of virtues.
Faith is she who remains firm and strong.
Charity is she who unbends during centuries and centuries.
But my little Hope is she who every morning wishes me good day.

Mass this weekend is 10am Sunday.

Anita Mason

Religious Education Coordinator