Advent Sunday

Advent Sunday is the beginning of the four week period of Advent before Christmas when Christians prepare for the coming of Christ. Advent means ‘coming’ in Latin and represents the coming of Jesus into the world. The date also marks the start of the liturgical or church year.

Who celebrates?

People of the Christian faith around the world.

How do people celebrate?

Each day of advent is recognised by the opening of an Advent calendar, although the calendars themselves vary from culture to culture – from candles to paper windows with chocolate insides.

What should I know?

• The date of advent changes every year – advent Sunday is the fourth Sunday before the start of Christmas and only starts on the 1st December when Christmas Day is on a Wednesday
• In the 2011 census 33.2 million people identified as Christian in the UK.

How can I support others?

• Ask people about their faith and whether they’d be willing to share what it means to them
• Recognise that different Christian faiths for example Orthodox Christians, may consider Advent a more religious time than others
• Use the opportunity to learn about the Christian faith and culture using the additional resources
• Talk to your team about the Christian representation among your volunteer, employee and service user population and if it’s representative of your area.

Church of England Advent resources: https://www.churchofengland.org/prayer-and-worship/worship-texts-and-resources/common-worship/churchs-year/times-and-seasons/advent

Understanding advent customs: https://www.whychristmas.com/customs/advent.shtml