Introduction to Advent
The Church’s liturgical year begins on the First Sunday of Advent. Through the annual cycle of seasons and feasts, the Church celebrates the entire mystery of Christ, from his Incarnation and birth through his death, Resurrection, and Ascension, the sending of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, and the expectation of his glorious return.
Advent (from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival”) is a season of devout and joyful expectation encompassing the four Sundays before Christmas. It has two principal purposes: to prepare us for the celebration of Christ’s first coming at Christmas and to direct our attention toward his glorious return at the Second Coming. As we contemplate these two comings of Christ, Advent also encourages us to recognize and welcome his presence in our lives here and now.
Advent also carries a penitential dimension, reflected in the violet vestments worn by the clergy, which signify repentance and preparation. The Gloria is omitted, not to convey somberness as in Lent, but, as the revised liturgical calendar explains, “so that on Christmas night the song of the angels may ring out anew in all its freshness.” Unlike Lent, however, the Alleluia is retained before the Gospel, underscoring the season’s joyful hope.