Advent is a significant season in the Christian liturgical calendar that marks the anticipation and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas. It is a time of reflection and prayer when individuals and communities prepare their hearts and minds for the coming of Christ. In the Western Christian tradition, Advent lasts for four weeks, beginning on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day and culminating on Christmas Eve.

What is Advent?

In the context of Christianity, advent refers to the season of anticipation both of the celebration of Christ’s first coming in Bethlehem, celebrated at Christmas, as well as the hopeful expectation of his return at the end of time.

During this season — which actually marks the beginning of the liturgical year, rather than the end — Christians around the world engage in various traditions and practices that enhance their spiritual preparation.

When does Advent start?

Advent begins each year on the Sunday nearest to November 30. The exact date varies each year. In 2025, Advent starts on Sunday, November 30.
The season spans four Sundays, culminating on Christmas Eve, leading into the joyous celebration of Christmas.

• First Sunday of Advent: November 30, 2025
• Second Sunday of Advent: December 7, 2025  
• Third Sunday of Advent: December 14, 2025
• Fourth Sunday of Advent: December 21, 2025

The Historical Origins of Advent

The concept of Advent likely dates back to the fourth century, although its exact origins are somewhat unclear. It is believed to have been established by early Christians in anticipation of the celebration of Christ’s nativity. Initially, Advent was a period of fasting, similar to Lent, focusing on penitence and preparation for the Feast of the Nativity.
Over the centuries, at least in the West, Advent evolved into a more joyful season of expectation and hope, with the emphasis shifting from penance to a joyous anticipation of the coming of Christ.

What does Advent mean?

The term “Advent” originates from a Latin root meaning “arrival” or “coming.”
Each week of Advent corresponds to a particular theme of hope, peace, joy, and love, aligning with the liturgical readings and prayers of the season. This framework helps Christians reflect on the significance of Christ’s birth, his ministry, and his promise to return.
The Advent season encourages believers to delve into their faith, foster a greater awareness of God’s presence in their lives, and cultivate a spirit of gratitude and generosity as they prepare for Christmas.

What are the 4 themes of Advent?

Advent encompasses four main themes, each representing a crucial aspect of the spiritual journey leading up to Christmas. Each of the four Sundays of Advent correspond to:

1. Hope: The first theme of Advent emphasizes the hope Christians have in the coming of Christ, reminiscent of the anticipation of the Messiah in the Old Testament.
2. Peace: The second theme reflects on the peace Christ brings into the world, reminding believers to seek inner peace and foster peace with other people.
3. Joy: The third theme centers on the joy of the season, celebrating the birth of Christ and the joy found in Christian community and fellowship.
4. Love: The final theme represents the selfless love of God, encouraging believers to embody love in their lives and relationships.

What color are Advent candles?

The colors of the Advent candles hold special significance, typically reflecting the themes of the season. There are four traditional colors used in the Advent candles:

• Purple: Symbolizing hope, peace, and penitence, this color is used for the first, second, and fourth candles.
• Pink: Used for the third candle, it represents joy and signifies the celebration of Christ’s coming.
• White: Often the color of the Christ candle, it symbolizes purity and represents the light of Christ entering the world.

Here at Erlanger Methodist Church, we are grateful to celebrate this season with you and your loved ones. We have a special and meaningful Advent Devotional available in service for pick up at our resource stations, or Pastor Devin has recorded readings of each day and the videos are available here, in our Media Tab, or on our Right Now Media curated resource section.