What is Advent?

Advent is a very special season where Christians celebrate the weeks leading up to Christmas as a time of focused anticipation on the gift of love and joy given to all people through the birth of Jesus Christ; however, this was not always the case--even though this was the original intention of the Advent season.

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The articles below give insightful information about this joyous season and the traditions of Advent.

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opens new windowWhat is Advent? Read what Justin Holcomb writes about the origin of the Advent traditions.

opens new windowHow to Find Hope, Joy, Peace, and Love This Advent Read as Robert Hampshire offers some intriguing insights about how Advent may indeed help people focus on the true meaning of Christmas during the rather chaotic holiday madness by intentionally setting time aside to remember the anticipation of the Savior and what Jesus gave to the world.

opens new windowThe Purpose and Symbolism of the Advent Wreath Read how Mercy Home celebrates the Advent season and how symbolism through Advent traditions highlights the true meaning of Christmas in the hearts of all.

opens new windowAdvent - A Countdown to Christmas Read as Focus on the Family highlights why families should take the time to celebrate Advent.

opens new windowWhy Advent is More Jewish Than You Think Read Michelle Van Loon's perspective about Advent and how it is interpreted from a Jewish perspective.

Fun Seasonal Links

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Image: www.Caravaggio.org

The Nativity scene painted by Caravaggio is not only a beautiful depiction of the Nativity scene but is also a painting with a rather intriguing story. Painted in 1609 it was stolen in 1969 and as of this date has still not been recovered. Learn more about this art work by clicking the links below:

Nativity with St. Francis and St. Lawrence

Former Mobster May Hold Clue to Recovery of Stolen Caravaggio

Image: "Adoration of the Child" by Gerrit Van Honthorst

Learn more about the beautiful tenebrism art technique Gerrit Van Honthorst used to create his contrast of light and darkness. (If you look closely, you will see Joseph next to Mary peering down at the baby Jesus.)

Gerrit Van Honthorst's "Adoration of the Child"

Advent Calendar History

Kids of all ages enjoy keeping an Advent calendar, but where did this tradition come from?

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Learn more about this topic by checking out the resources below.

opens new windowThe History of Advent Calendars by Alex Wakelam

opens new windowDiscover the History Behind the Advent Calendar

opens new windowThe History of the Advent Calendar by Kath Bates

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Films for Advent

Devotionals for the Advent Season

The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association offers a free opens new window Advent Devotional Guide to help prepare individuals for this special season.

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Books for Advent