Liturgical day · kjv
What Is Advent?
Advent is the four-week season before Christmas — a time of waiting, longing, and preparation. The word itself means "coming." Christians prepare for the first coming of Christ at Bethlehem and the promised second coming at the end of the age.
History & Origin
The observance of Advent developed gradually in the early church, with four-week forms established by the 9th century. The season has a double focus: remembering the long wait of Israel for the Messiah, and awaiting the return of Christ. Unlike the festive build-up of the secular pre-Christmas season, Advent is traditionally more restrained — a season of hope, repentance, and longing. In liturgical churches the color purple or blue marks the season, switching to the joyful white and gold at Christmas itself.
How It Is Observed
The most visible observance is the Advent wreath — four candles, one lit on each Sunday of Advent, often with a fifth central Christ Candle lit on Christmas. The candles typically represent hope, peace, joy, and love. Advent calendars, daily Scripture readings, and Advent devotionals are also common. Many families use this season to refocus on the meaning of Christmas amid the cultural rush.
Scripture for Advent
Isaiah 9:6
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”
Isaiah 40:3
“The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.”
Luke 1:31
“And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.”
Malachi 3:1
“Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple.”
Revelation 22:20
“He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Advent start?
Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas — always between November 27 and December 3. It ends on Christmas Eve.
What do the Advent candles mean?
Most traditions use four candles representing hope, peace, joy, and love — lit one per Sunday. The third candle is often pink (for joy) while the others are purple or blue. A central white Christ Candle is added on Christmas.
Is Advent a time of fasting?
Historically it was a season of fasting and repentance similar to Lent. Many traditions have relaxed the fasting but kept the reflective character. Some families adopt a simplified lifestyle during Advent to make space for spiritual preparation.
Why is Advent celebrated?
Advent reminds believers of two things: Israel's long wait for the Messiah that culminated at Bethlehem, and the church's ongoing wait for Christ's return. Both invite a posture of hope, attention, and readiness.