Nagpur: As the liturgical year (Catholic Almanac spiritual Calendar) begins anew, the season of Advent invites the faithful into a profound journey of preparation and reflection. This four-week period, commencing with the Sunday closest to the feast of St Andrew the Apostle (this year December 1), serves as a dual reminder of both the first coming of Christ and the anticipation of His second coming at the end of time.
“Advent is characterised by a spirit of waiting, conversion, and hope. It is a time when believers are called to remember the humble arrival of the Lord in our mortal flesh while also supplicating for His glorious return as the universal Judge. This season encourages a deep conversion of heart, echoing the call of John the Baptist to “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2) and fostering a joyful hope in the salvation that Christ has already accomplished,” said Archbishop Elias Gonsalves.
“The liturgy of Advent is rich with symbolism and meaning, guiding the faithful to recognise the presence of Christ in their daily lives. It is not merely a commemoration of a historical event but an invitation to live in vigilant expectation of Christ’s return,” said Vicar General Fr Anthony D’souza.
This understanding transforms the entire life of a Christian into an ‘advent’, a continuous preparation for the Lord’s coming through symbolism such as: 1. The Advent Wreath: One of the most recognised symbols of Advent is the Advent wreath, which consists of four candles placed on green fronds. This wreath symbolises the various stages of salvation history leading up to Christ’s coming and represents the prophetic light that gradually illuminates the darkness before the birth of Christ. Each candle lit on the Sundays of Advent signifies a step closer to the celebration of Christmas.
2. The Nature of Advent: The term ‘Advent’ itself, derived from the Latin ‘ad-venio’, means ‘to come’. This reflects the season’s focus on the coming of Christ, both in history and in the future. The season is characterised by a spirit of joyful expectation and hope, as it invites the faithful to prepare their hearts for the Lord’s arrival.
3. Themes of Waiting and Hope: Advent is described as a time of waiting, conversion, and hope. It emphasises the memory of Christ’s first coming and the anticipation of His final return as the universal Judge. This duality encourages believers to reflect on their lives and to be vigilant in their faith, recognising that every moment is an opportunity for salvation.
4. Marian Symbolism: The season of Advent also highlights the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is seen as a model of faith and humility. The Church’s liturgy during Advent often recalls her presence and mission, emphasising her significance in the mystery of salvation. This Marian focus is particularly evident in various pious practices and celebrations throughout the season.
5. Connection to Nature: Advent occurs during the winter interstice in the northern hemisphere, symbolising a time of rest and waiting, much like the seed lying dormant in the ground, awaiting the warmth of spring. This connection to the natural cycle reinforces the themes of hope and renewal inherent in the season.
“Advent is a season rich in spiritual significance, inviting all to embrace a time of hopeful expectation, conversion, and preparation for the coming of Christ,” added Fr Vivian Lobo, Director of Christian Life Commission and Principal of SFS School of Excellence, Seminary Hills.
“It is a reminder that in every moment of waiting, there lies the promise of God’s presence and the fulfilment of His love,” concluded Fr Sebastiraj, Rector, SFS Cathedral, and Fr Johnson Puttur, a Pallotine priest and manager, St Vincent Palloti SAC.
