What is it?

Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical year for Christians.  It is a season of hope, preparation, expectation, and celebration — not just for Jesus’ anniversary of birth but also as a reminder of our redemption and of his promised second coming.

When does it start?

Advent starts on Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009 in the Western churches.  The first Sunday of Advent is set as the Sunday closest to the feast of St. Andrew the Apostle, which is on Nov. 30th.

How do I do it?

One way to observe this season is through prayer.  Each Sunday of Advent has a set schedule of scripture readings.  Read and reflect on the scripture passages for the Sunday.  Two questions you might ask yourself are: What captures my attention?  How am I called to respond?  You may also choose to write down your thoughts and feelings on the verses in a special notebook.

Scripture Readings for the Four Sundays of Advent

• First Sunday of Advent (Nov. 29/09)
  1st: Jeremiah 33: 14-16
  2nd: 1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2
  Gospel: Luke 21:25-28, 34-36
• Second Sunday of Advent (Dec. 6/09)
  1st: Baruch 5:1-9
  2nd: Philippians 1:3-6, 8-11
  Gospel: Luke 3:1-6
• Third Sunday of Advent (Dec. 13/09)
  1st: Zephaniah 3:14-18a
  2nd: Philippians 4:4-7  
  Gospel: Luke 3:10-18
• Fourth Sunday of Advent (Dec. 20/09)
  1st: Micah 5:2-5a
  2nd: Hebrews 10:5-10  
  Gospel: Luke 1:39-45

For more information

Catholic Online Advent & Christmas 2009 site:
http://www.advent2009.org/index.php

Archdiocese of Toronto's Liturgical Calendar for Advent 2009-2010:
http://www.archtoronto.org/events_news/church_calendar.html

Definition of Advent at the Catholic Encyclopedia:
http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/01165a.htm

Reflections for Advent from Churches Together in Britain and Ireland:
http://www.ctbi.org.uk/398