The Meaning of Advent … A guide to the season:1. Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love: The Advent ThemesEach of the four Sundays leading to Christmas is marked by a specific theme:First Sunday – Hope: Christians reflect on the hope that Jesus brings, particularly the promise of His second coming.Second Sunday – Peace: This week emphasises the peace that Christ offers, recalling the peace He brought to the world.Third Sunday – Joy: Known as Gaudete Sunday, this is a joyful week symbolized by a rose-coloured candle in the Advent wreath, celebrating the joy of salvation.Fourth Sunday – Love: The final week focuses on the boundless love of God, as shown in the gift of Jesus.2. Advent Wreath and CandlesThe Advent wreath is a circular garland of evergreen branches, symbolising eternity and God's unending love. It holds four candles, each lit progressively on the four Sundays of Advent. In many traditions, three candles are purple, symbolising repentance and waiting, and the third candle, representing joy, is rose. Some wreaths include a fifth, white candle in the centre, called the Christ Candle, lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.3. The Symbol of LightThe lighting of Advent candles is symbolic of the coming of Christ, often referred to as the Light of the World. Each candle adds brightness as the weeks go by, symbolising the hope and anticipation growing in the darkness until Christmas arrives.4. Scripture and ReflectionDuring Advent, readings often come from the Old Testament prophets like Isaiah, who foretold the birth of the Messiah, as well as New Testament passages that speak of preparation and watchfulness. Many people use Advent devotionals or calendars with daily readings and reflections to focus on the meaning of the season. We will be suggesting daily reflections throughout the month of December.5. Fasting and RepentanceTraditionally, Advent was a season of fasting and repentance, much like Lent. It’s a time for Christians to prepare their hearts, examining their lives, and seeking forgiveness to be spiritually ready for the arrival of Christ.6. Advent Calendars and PracticesAdvent calendars, typically marked with windows or doors, are used to count down the days to Christmas. Many families and churches incorporate acts of kindness, prayer, or special daily reflections to make Advent a meaningful journey.7. Anticipation of the Second ComingWhile Advent looks back at the birth of Jesus, it also anticipates His return embracing the themes of hope and waiting.Advent invites people to slow down and cultivate an inward focus as they approach the celebration of Christmas. 

Through traditions, scripture, and acts of kindness, it transforms December into a time of preparation and reflection, emphasising that Christmas is not only an event but an ongoing invitation to embody the light of Christ.