The Christian celebration of the season of Advent defies the idea of immediate gratification. It reminds us that anything worthwhile is worth the wait. Advent celebrates many things, not the least of which is the difficult but necessary spirituality of watchfulness, waiting, and acceptance.

Like most adults, children do not like to wait. Time seems so long to them. "When's my birthday coming?" they ask, hopeful that we will answer "Tomorrow!" or even "Today!" We live simultaneously with his presence and his absence, believing that in the fullness of time, God will again send his Son.

This theme introduces your child to the Christian experience of waiting. He or she will discover that waiting is not a passive activity; it is an active experience of patient watchfulness and preparation.

Prayer and other preparations will help your child discover what waiting is all about. Work together on simple and practical ways to wait and to prepare your hearts and home for Jesus' coming. Read to your child from the Bible the story of Mary and Joseph preparing for the coming of the baby Jesus. See Luke 2:1-5.

Family Activity

	Use the "Take Home Project" wreath from your child's book, or make an Advent wreath with live greenery for your home. For safety reasons consider using electric candles. Use three purple ribbons and one pink one for the third week of Advent. Pray a special prayer beside the wreath at the same time each day, perhaps at dinner time if the family is together then.

See the Liturgical Calendar on this site for additional information.
See also Teacher—Advent or Catechist—Advent for Liturgy.