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What is Advent?
"Advent" means arrival or coming. But what arrival are we expecting? Did you know that there are three different levels to the Catholic celebration of Advent?
First: Recollection
During Advent, we recall Jesus's first coming at the first Christmas, when He was born as Savior of the world.Second: Participation
This season is not just for looking backwards. Jesus did not come once and then leave us alone! At every single celebration of the Mass, He continues to come to us substantially through the Eucharist and invites us to receive Him. Celebrate Advent by participating as fully as possible in the Eucharistic celebration.Third: Anticipation
The last arrival we anticipate is Jesus's second coming at the end of time, when He will come to judge the living and the dead. Our final preparation during Advent is to anticipate His coming in glory and make ourselves ready to receive Him at the end of our lives.
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Advent at St. Monica
"Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life."
This Advent, we're inviting you to stop. To not get caught up in the anxieties of daily life to the point where your heart becomes drowsy and you lose sight of the goal of this busy season. But it is a busy season, and we know you may not find the time you need at home or at work.
Instead of adding one more thing to your December to-do list, we're simply asking you to come to Mass. Come to Mass every Sunday, just like you would anyway, but treat each of the four Sundays of Advent as a retreat. Notice the music that calms your mind as you enter the Church. Notice the pauses for reflection as you pray through the Mass. Hear the readings from Scripture. Every Mass prepares us for Jesus's return, and at every Mass, we receive Him and His peace in the Eucharist.
Click here for the First Week of AdventClick here for the Second Week of Advent
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