A Blessed Advent

[CyrilSebastian]

Reading passages from the Bible that focus on the prophecy and anticipation of the Messiah is a common Advent tradition.

[CyrilSebastian]

Pope Gregory I (reigned 590 to 604) established the themes of Advent:   
preparations for the coming of Christ in history (His birth), in mystery (His presence in the sacraments), and in majesty (His Second Coming).

[CyrilSebastian]

Rorate Coeli   
The devotional Advent chant is a poignant reflection on man's need for salvation.   
The ancient antiphon is taken from Isaiah Chapter 45 Verse 8: Drop down, ye heavens,   
from above, and let the skies pour down righteousness.   
 
 

[CyrilSebastian]

Las Posadas - which means "inn" or "lodging" - is a nine day Advent celebration beginning on December 16 that reenacts Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem in anticipation of the birth of Christ.   
Its history can be traced back to the Middle Ages in Spain, where Catholics held processions and plays to reenact biblical scenes.

[CyrilSebastian]

Advent first emerged as a season where Christians observed 40 days of fasting (much like with Lent),
penance, and prayer in readiness for celebrating Christ's birth and the baptism of new Christians at Epiphany in Jerusalem.