It is Advent Season – a season full of the message of hope, faith, joy and peace as we await the coming of the Lord Jesus. It is a season of expectation of the Lord’s coming.
The Catechism teaches that when the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year, she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah, for by sharing in the long preparation for the Saviour’s first coming, the faithful renew their ardent desire for his second coming. (C.C.C. no.524)
We celebrate Advent each year, however, the second coming of the Lord is something that will come upon us suddenly. So, every Advent we are reminded of how we prepare for the Lord’s second coming while looking forward with joyful hope to the celebration of his first coming. When we decorate our houses and streets with light and begin making shopping for Christmas, Advent reminds us to stay away spiritually, and remember the spiritual significance of Christmas lights shining in the darkness and the gifts we should bear for the coming Lord.
The Purple Candle we light for the week signifies Hope.
Fr Kingsley
1st Sunday of Advent (YA)