“…and a little child shall lead them.” Isaiah 11:6
First Week of Advent: HOPE
Monday, November 29, 2010
Sharing Advent with Children
A little about the Advent Wreath
Advent itself, from the Latin “adventus”, means “coming”. So we look forward to and prepare during Advent, for the coming of the Christ, the Light of the world.
The origins of the advent wreath are not clear. There is evidence of pre-Christian use of wreaths with candles during the dark December days as a sign for the hope of the warmer, lighter days of spring. By the 1600’s, many Christians had adopted the tradition as part of their spiritual preparation for Christmas.
Most sources agree on the symbolism: The circle represents the eternity of God, and God’s continuous Love. The evergreens symbolize enduring life. Four Candles, lit progressively each week, beginning on Sunday, represent the four weeks of Advent. The colors of the candles have varied by tradition and custom, but the most common configuration is 3 purple and 1 pink. Traditionally, purple, considered serious and subdued, is associated with repentance and remorse, which, as Father Bill explained, has been tied to the somber season of Lent. (As with change of the church raiments, maybe we can use the more joyous, heavenly blue in place of the purple. We will in our home this year.) The pink candle, lit during Week 3, is more celebratory and hopeful.
Making a Wreath
With only a little imagination, you can create something wondrous with your children, your spouse, your cat, or all by yourself. Gather up some greens and shape them into a circle. A large platter works well as a frame, but be aware there will be wax drippings. If you like, set candles in holders, in a ring inside the wreath. No candle holders? Use hollowed-out apples or melt the candles to round, smooth stones. Your children can come up with a million ideas. Decorate, if you like, with pine cones, homemade ornaments…
The Ceremony
We always made our Advent ceremony a time of wonder and awe, as well as joy, for our children. Young children especially love the predictability of a ritual, and can look forward to the light with great anticipation and excitement. Which is the whole point.
Include whatever is important or meaningful in your home. Darken the room and shoot for a feeling of silent awe as you light the candle. Allow it to burn a bit in silence. Have a scripture reading, singing of songs, a prayer chain. Make an advent chain and have your child remove one link each night. Challenge your child, or yourself, to do something kind for someone else and not get caught. Plan what your family will do this season for others You can make it whatever you want. The important thing is the coming together, the quiet reflection, and the anticipation. Carefully and prayerfully snuff the candles. Watch the pattern of the smoke as it floats away. Smell it.
Breathe. Be thankful.
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