The Christian church year begins with Advent (from the Latin adventus meaning coming or arrival) which is also a time when Christians prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ. Advent begins on the Sunday nearest November 30 (St. Andrew's Day) and lasts until Christmas Eve.
Advent has been celebrated since the 500's CE. For many centuries, it was a strict observance marked by penitence. Gradually, this time has become more joyful as Christ's coming is celebrated.
Many churches also include an advent wreath in their Advent services. The wreath consists of four candles (three purple and one rose) arranged in a circle of evergreen which symbolizes eternal life. The first candle of Advent is often called the Prophets Candle to symbolize the prophesies in the Old Testament telling of the coming of a Messiah.
Here you see our minister giving the Children's Message during the 9 AM service, a more informal setting in which the whole family participates.
@digitalrn our minister tells us the most significant event in the church year is Easter, but the little,kid in all of us still believes it is Christmas!
