A New Experience: Celebrating Advent

by Michael Novelli   |  November 30 2008    09:09 PM

In the last year my family and I have begun to explore the rich traditions of the christian calendar. We are grateful to be a part of a congregation whose worship and celebration connect to the historical practices of the Church.

This is a first for us... we both were not a part of homes or congregations in the past that honored the christian calendar. So we feel a bit like we have just opened a door to a entirely new world of possibility in our faith, and we are learning and soaking in the beauty and mystery of these practices.

Today we began our celebration of Advent. Our pastor, Joel Kline from the Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren, did a wonderful job of leading us toward thoughtful reflection this morning. I loved how he lit the first Advent candle with children from the congregation, and took time to explain to them the true meaning of this season.

For years I have struggled with getting caught up in the business of the season... in the gift buying, party planning, and travel plans. I have desperately needed a structure or rhythm to help me slow down and focus on the significance of Jesus’ birth.

Advent is a word that means "coming" or "visit”. At certain times each day my family will be taking a few minutes to slow down, share, pray, read and reflect. Each week we will light a candle symbolizing an aspect of Jesus incarnation: hope, peace, joy, and love. These special activities will remind us of how Jesus’ entered our world, showed us a new way of living, and continues to indwell our lives.

Here are some of the resources that are helping us in our journey:

TOGETHER WITH MY FAMILY (MY WIFE AND 3-YEAR-OLD)
Advent Guide from author Mark Roberts

Advent Nativity Book from Usborne Publishing


WITH MY WIFE AND ON MY OWN:
Advent and Christmas Wisdom from Henri J.M. Nouwen

Daily Readings from Mars Hill Church

Lily Lewin’s Blog

Please share how your family and faith community celebrate Advent!