The First Sunday of Advent

This is the beginning of the new liturgical year. It is the first of four Sundays leading up to Christmas and the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

It is a time for preparation, penitence and anticipation. The Advent wreath is a sign of the anticipation of the birth of Jesus. Traditionally, one candle is lighted this week, two next week and so on.

In addition, this is a season for anticipation of the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. As we prepare for the Christmas celebration we are mindful of the wait for Christ's return.

Although Sr. Judy Zienlinski, OSF, of the Sisters of St. Francis in Sylvania, OH, may be experiencing temperatures cooler than we find in St. Petersburg, her reflections on the First Sunday of Advent may still be helpful to us.

This video is provided by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Liturgy notes: Advent: We hope, we prepare