In the wilderness, prepare the way of the LORD!” (Is 40:3-4)
Thanksgiving with our families holds a special place in our hearts. It is a time to express gratitude and experience togetherness, setting a natural tone for the Advent season.
It’s a sacred opportunity to reflect on God’s abundant blessings and to turn our hearts toward the ultimate gift, the Birth of Christ.
The Advent season, a time of joyful anticipation, reminds us of Jesus’ Birth and God’s infinite love. This sacred season invites families across the world to pause amidst the rush of daily life and focus on the true meaning of Christmas: God’s love for humanity.
Isaiah 40:3-4 reminds us that Advent challenges us to make space for Christ amidst life’s busyness, purify our hearts and remove the obstacles that hinder us from fully encountering the Baby Jesus. Through prayer, repentance and purification, we clear away these barriers, inviting Christ to be incarnate in our hearts.
This year, the Advent Journey begins Dec. 1; with each week brings a specific theme, reminding us of the hope, peace, joy and love Jesus brings to the world.
As a family, we can strengthen our bond and deepen our faith by engaging in meaningful, yet practical activities for the whole family.
Prepare an Advent Wreath
Preparing an Advent wreath as a family is an enriching tradition. Each week, light a candle and reflect on its significance. The first candle represents hope, the second peace, the third joy and the fourth love. Read Scripture passages corresponding to each theme. You can find the Four Sunday Readings on this website: bible.usccb.org/readings/calendar.
Family Prayer Time
Set aside time each day for family prayers focused on the Advent themes. As you gather in prayer, teach the children the importance of waiting on the Lord with hopeful hearts.
25 Days of Acts of Kindness
Encourage children to engage in acts of kindness. These could include helping a neighbor, donating toys or clothes or volunteering at a local charity. You may also support the Holy Childhood Association, which helps children in need worldwide.
Advent Bingo Night
A festive and meaningful way to celebrate the season: create your own Bingo cards by including words like “Nativity Scene,” “Star,” “Angel,” “Gingerbread,” “Santa,” “Wreath,” “Candy Cane” and more to enrich the experience with the symbols of the season.
Nativity Scene Creation
Create or set up a Nativity scene together. As you arrange each figure, discuss the significance of each character in the story of Christ’s Birth and their role in God’s redemptive plan.
Reconciliation
As a family, take the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Confession. Open to Christ’s presence as we prepare our hearts for his coming.
Preparing the way for the Messiah is a journey of hope, peace, joy and love. By embracing these practices, families can create lasting memories and gain a deeper understanding of the true meaning of Christmas.
Wishing you a Christmas that is truly blessed and filled with joy and blessings!
Mariyam Francis is parish catechetical leader in Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish, Hamilton.
Faith at Home is a monthly column coordinated by the Diocese of Trenton’s Departments of Catechesis, Evangelization and Family Life, and Youth and Young Adult Ministry. For additional Faith at Home resources, visit dioceseoftrenton.org/faith-at-home.