Each year, the first Sunday of Advent is marked by a special event in Holy Cross Parish, Rumson. After the 10:30 a.m. Mass, families are invited to make Advent wreaths. Each family receives a bag with supplies to make a wreath as well as help and support from friends, parish staff and volunteers.
Parish pastoral assistant Lori LaPlante, explained that this year marked the ninth year the wreath-making has been offered and this “was our best celebration so far” with more than 50 families in attendance. Along with enjoying refreshments, families enjoyed assistance from volunteers who assisted with making the four bows for the wreaths and hearing about the liturgical colors for each week of advent. The parish also provided each family with a book of prayers for Advent and guide to the various liturgies and events planned in the parish during the Christmas season.