The season of Advent begins this year on Sunday, November 29, 2026, and runs until Christmas Eve. Because Christmas Day falls on a Friday, the four Sundays of Advent are November 29 and December 6, 13 and 20.
What is Advent?
The word comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming.” Advent marks the start of the church year for many Christian traditions, including Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist and Presbyterian churches. It looks two ways: back to the first coming of Christ at Bethlehem, and forward to his promised return.
It is traditionally a season of hope, preparation and repentance rather than early celebration. Many churches use purple or blue, and readings often come from the prophets, especially Isaiah, and from John the Baptist’s call to prepare the way of the Lord.
The Advent wreath
A common symbol is the Advent wreath, a circle of evergreen with four candles, one lit on each Sunday, often with a fifth white candle lit at Christmas. Traditions differ on what each candle represents, but themes of hope, peace, joy and love are common.
Simple ways to observe Advent
- Follow a daily Bible reading plan through the prophecies of Christ’s coming.
- Light a candle at family prayers each Sunday evening.
- Set aside time for quiet prayer amid the end-of-year rush.
- Plan an act of generosity for someone in need before Christmas.
Sources: Church calendar; Wikipedia: Advent.
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Faithful Scribe is a passionate writer dedicated to exploring Christian teachings and inspiring believers to live out their faith with purpose and conviction. For more insightful articles, stay connected with Charismata News.
