The Home School Advent Calendar - 1st December

Today for many of us we will be opening the first door of our Advent Calendar and savouring the chocolate behind that door. But do we know why we are opening those doors?

For those of us who are Christain we will recognise the advent period as the time leading up to the religious Christams holiday. The word "advent" comes from the Latin word 'adventus', which means arrival and Christmas is celebrating the arrival of the baby Jesus.

The advent period always starts on the forth Sunday before Christmas Day. It originated in the fourth and fifth centuries when it lasted for 40 days just like Lent before Easter. Advent was a time to reflect on the birth of Jesus and to prepare for his second coming. There are a number of Saint Days during December to help Christians prepare religiously.

For many of us, it has turned into an enjoyable countdown to Christmas Day, involving calendars, candles, and tree decorations. We are going to take the Advent Calendar idea this year and do it the "Home School" way.

Fortunately for us, this year the 1st of December coincides with the first Advent Sunday. On this day, Christians will light the first advent candle to symbolise the beginning of the Advent season. Only we won't be lighting candles ourselves, we will going to see lots of lights being illuminated. The first of December is when many churches, towns, villages and communities will swtich on their Christmas lights. So, find out now where this is happening later this evening and go along and join in.

Earlier, I mentioned that we are approaching this season in our "Home School" manner, with a twist! I am once again urging you to prioritize others over yourself during this holiday season. Keep in mind that it's not about the most impressive gift you receive, but rather the most meaningful one you give. When you go out, remember to invite a friend, study buddy, or a relative who may have been isolated for some time.