2015 advent season
- 1. 2015 Advent Season Anticipation , Contemplation and Reflection 1
- 2. What is Advent and when does it occur? Advent is the season in the church calendar observed by some Christians that focuses attention on the true meaning of Christmas, the day set aside to celebrate and observe the birth of Jesus Christ- whom Christians believe is both God incarnate and the Messiah. The Advent season usually lasts for four weeks beginning on the Sunday nearest to November 30 and ending Christmas Eve. On Advent wreaths containing only four candles each candle represents one of the following virtues or themes: hope/anticipation, peace, joy and love. When five candles are used on an Advent wreath four of the candles represent the themes previously mentioned and the fifth candle represents Jesus Christ-Savior, Redeemer, Reconciler; the Messiah. 2
- 3. First Sunday in Advent Almighty God unto whom all hearts and minds are open and from whom nothing is hidden, we thank you for Jesus Christ. With grateful hearts and much anticipation we look forward to joining in the great celebration that honors Jesus’ birth, on the day we have set aside to acknowledge that blessed event. By remembering His birth, we are reminded of His death, resurrection and His promise to return- for which we eagerly but not idly wait. Amen! 3
- 4. Second Sunday in Advent Almighty God unto whom all hearts and minds are open and from whom nothing is hidden, please help us to work for and to practice peace in our personal lives. Please help all those living in and near war-torn countries and those living in violent ridden communities. Please change the hearts of the violent people among us. If they harden their hearts against you by refusing to change their wicked ways, please remove them from our midst so the rest of us can live in peace. Amen! 4
- 5. Third Sunday in Advent Almighty God unto whom all hearts and minds are open and from whom nothing is hidden, you alone are the joy and the strength of our lives. Thank you for hope, peace and joy. Amen! 5
- 6. Fourth Sunday in Advent Almighty God unto whom all hearts and minds are open and from whom nothing is hidden, in your mercy please fill us with Your love so that your light shines through us to your glory and for the benefit of others. Amen 6
- 7. Almighty God unto whom all hearts and minds are open and from whom nothing is hidden, we celebrate the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ and acknowledge that the Messiah has come! 7