What does Advent mean?
Advent lasts for four weeks before Christmas Day on December 25. “Advent” comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming or arrival.” For us as the people of God, the season points us first to God's “arrival” in Jesus Christ, who was born on the original Christmas Day. Advent is a season of preparation, and each week has a subtheme to help us prepare:
- Week One, HOPE, December 1
- Week Two, LOVE, December 8
- Week Three, JOY, December 15
- Week Four, PEACE, December 22
- Christmas Eve: Christ-Candle: SALVATION
JOIN US FOR A STUDY ON ADVENT, ESSENTIAL ADVENT, IN OUR FOUNDATIONS CLASSES BEGINNING DECEMBER 1.
The Advent Wreath
An Advent wreath is a ring of evergreen holding four candles. The circle symbolizes God’s everlasting love for His creation, and the evergreens represent Christ’s gift of eternal life. The light of each candle represents the light that Christ brings to the World. On Christmas day, a white candle is lit in the center of the wreath to announce the birth of Christ, the Light of the World. As you (and your family) gather daily for prayer, begin by lighting one candle the first week, two candles the second week, three the third week, and so on.
On November 24, following the service we will meet in the courtyard for Advent wreath making. We have kits available to purchase for $20. If you've already got a wreath at home, still plan on coming and making a wreath with your church family. And pray about who you can invite to join you. If you bring a friend who doesn't attend Holy Cross, their family will receive a free kit! Don't miss this special family event.
We are offering a wonderful Advent Family Devotional called Eighth Day Prayers for purchase. This devotional is meant to usher us into a place of reverence and prayer where we await the coming Messiah (Advent), celebrate Jesus's arrival (Christmas), and realize the fulfillment of His promises to us. (Epiphany)