Advent marks the beginning of the church year. It is a season of expectation and preparation, as the church prepares to celebrate the coming of Christ in his incarnation, and also looks ahead to his final advent as judge at the end of time. The characteristic note of Advent is expectation, rather than penitence, although the character of the season is easily coloured by an analogy with Lent. Church decorations are simple and spare, and purple is the traditional liturgical colour. In the northern hemisphere, the Advent season falls at the darkest time of the year, and the natural symbols of darkness and light are powerfully at work throughout Advent and Christmas.
In this rich tapestry there is great opportunity for reflection and devotion. At St. Augustine’s, we see in Advent the opportunity for individuals to share their own “hopes and fears of all the years,” in light of scripture. From now until December 24, a new reflection will appear each morning. Almost all the writers are lay persons – members of our church family – who have agreed to share thoughts, images and music to help guide us on our Advent journey together. We call it an Advent Calendar because each reflection marks the days, counting down to Christmas. We pray that these reflections will be a blessing to you this Advent season. Visit our Advent Calendar 2021 today.