About Advent

Advent is a time of preparation for and celebration of the three "advents" (comings) of Christ. As the scripture reminds us, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). We are to be Semper Paratus, always ready to welcome the Lord into every situation in our lives.

1. Tomorrow: The future coming of Christ at the end of time is anticipated in the first days of Advent. We profess in the Creed, "He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead." Jesus Christ is our future. He will return. Participating in the liturgy of Advent, we long for his coming. Jesus reminds us to "stay awake, be vigilant, be alert!"


2. Yesterday: The historical coming of Christ in the incarnation is the second focus of advent. We hear the scripture about John the Baptist and Mary, the mother of Jesus, who played important roles in the historical coming of Jesus, two thousand years ago. We remember the manner in which Jesus entered the world and contemplate his love for us.


3. Today: The present coming of Christ is the third coming that is celebrated at Advent and into Christmas. The liturgical focus on the coming of Christ at the end of time, and in history, help us to open ourselves to the coming of Christ into our hearts. Jesus is present now in his body, the Church, and in the least of our brothers and sisters.