Advent is the season that begins the liturgical year. It originated in the early church as a short period of intense preparation for the nativity of the Lord on the 25th of December. Advent slowly came to be structured into the four Sundays with proper readings and prayers. This season is marked by devout and joyful expectation as we recall the first humble coming of the Lord at Bethlehem. At the same time, we are invited to direct our hearts and minds towards Christ’s final coming in glory at the end of time. This is well expressed both in the scripture
readings, in the prayers, as well as in the two parts into which Advent is broken. During the first part of Advent, up until 16 December, the focus is on the second coming of the Lord, while during the second part, from 17 to 24 December, the emphasis is on the immediate preparation for Christmas.
By listening to the message of the prophets foretelling the birth of the Savior, we are renewed in our desire to see him at his glorious coming at the end of time as our Lord and universal judge. These two comings of the Lord are connected by the daily coming of the Lord in our lives through his Word, Sacraments, other people and events.
Our liturgy is also different from that of ordinary time, in that we are restrained in our music and decoration of the Church, forgoing a Gloria so that we can burst forth in grateful song on Christmas eve. Also, during the creed said on Christmas eve and Christmas morning we all kneel when we come to the part which says “… and by the Holy Spirit was made incarnate.” Many of you will also have adopted some additional spiritual practices, such as setting up an Advent wreath at home and praying as each week an additional candle is lit.
I pray that your advent season may be a time of joyful preparation not only to celebrate the coming of Jesus in time, but also to prepare for his coming in eternity.
Advent and Christmas Schedule
Tuesday 2 December, 19h30 – 20h30
Adoration and the sacrament of reconciliation
Wednesday 24 December, 18h00 – 19h30
Office of Readings and Mass in the Night, followed by sherry and mince pies.
Thursday 25 December, 07h00 – 07h45
Christmas Mass at Dawn
Thursday 25 December, 09h00 – 10h00
Christmas Mass during the Day
Please note that there will be NO children’s liturgy from 14 December to 11 January. Also, the church will closed outside of mass times from 25 December to 4 January, though I will still be available telephonically and on WhatsApp.
