Education
The Christmas decorations are starting to appear, carols are playing softly in the shops, and there's a buzz of excitement in the air. But before we get swept up in the festivities, the Catholic Church invites us to pause and enter into the season of Advent.
Advent, meaning "coming" in Latin, is the period of four weeks leading up to Christmas. It's a special time of preparation where we not only anticipate the joyful celebration of Jesus' birth, but also reflect on his second coming. Think of it as a journey – a journey of hope, peace, joy, and love, leading us to the manger in Bethlehem.
In your child's Catholic school, they'll be embarking on this journey through Scripture readings, prayers, and perhaps even creating beautiful Advent wreaths. You can join them on this adventure at home too! Here are some simple ways to bring the spirit of Advent into your family life:
1. Light the Way:
- Advent Wreath: The Advent wreath, with its four candles, is a beautiful symbol of the season. Each candle represents a different theme: hope, peace, joy, and love. Gather as a family each Sunday to light the candles, say a prayer, and reflect on the readings of the day. Let the growing light illuminate your path towards Christmas.
- Jesse Tree: Another wonderful tradition is the Jesse Tree. This unique tree visually tells the story of salvation history, tracing Jesus' ancestry all the way back to Abraham. Each day, you add an ornament representing a person or event from the Bible, connecting the dots from the Old Testament to the birth of Jesus.
2. Acts of Kindness:
Advent is a time for giving and serving others, just as Jesus came to serve us. Encourage your child to participate in acts of kindness, such as:
- Donating to those in need: Choose a local charity or organisation together and donate food, toys, or clothes.
- Helping with chores around the house: Even small acts of service can make a big difference.
- Reaching out to someone who is lonely: Encourage your child to write a card or make a small gift for an elderly neighbour or relative.
3. Sharing the Story:
Share the story of Christmas with your children in engaging ways:
- Read children's books about the Nativity: Visit your local library or bookstore for a wide selection.
- Sing Advent hymns and carols: Fill your home with the beautiful music of the season.
- Watch age-appropriate movies about the birth of Jesus: This can be a fun and engaging way to learn about the Christmas story.
4. Finding Moments of Peace:
In the midst of the holiday busyness, make time for quiet reflection.
- Set aside a few minutes each day for silent prayer: Encourage your child to talk to God about their hopes and dreams for the season.
- Practice waiting patiently: Advent is a season of waiting and anticipation. Help your child understand that good things come to those who wait, just as we wait with joyful expectation for the coming of Christ.
By incorporating these simple practices into your family life, you can help your child experience the true meaning of Advent and prepare their hearts for the celebration of Jesus' birth.
5. Preparing for an Eco-Friendly Christmas:
Inspired by Laudato Si’, we are all called to care for our common home by embracing sustainability and making the holiday season as eco-friendly as we can. To do this, you can:
- Reduce waste, choose eco-conscious gifts, and support local artisans.
- Honour creation by prioritising natural, organic, and fair-trade products.
- Reflect with your family on how your daily choices impact the planet and our neighbours.
The above artwork was created by St Joseph's Catholic Primary School, Bulli, student Abigail Truscott, as part of our 2024 Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition. View all finalist artworks here.
