Advent Traditions

- The Advent Wreath
  
  The use of the Advent Wreath is a traditional practice which has found its place in the Church as well as in the home. The blessing of an Advent Wreath takes place on the First Sunday of Advent or on the evening before the First Sunday of Advent.
  When the blessing of the Advent Wreath is celebrated in the home, it is appropriate that it be blessed by a parent or another member of the family.
  
  ADVENT WREATH BLESSING (IN ENGLISH)
  ADVENT WREATH Blessing (EN ESPAÑOL)
- The Advent Calendar
  
  An Advent calendar can help you fully enter in to the season with daily activity and prayer suggestions to prepare you spiritually for the birth of Jesus Christ.
  
  Advent Calendar in English
  
  Advent Calendar (EN ESPAÑOL)
- The Nativity Scene
  
  In its present form the custom of displaying figures depicting the birth of Jesus Christ owes its origin to St. Francis of Assisi, who made the Christmas crèche or manger for Christmas Eve of 1223.
  
  The blessing of the Christmas manger or nativity scene may take place on the Vigil of Christmas or at another suitable time.
  
  When the manger is set up in the home, it is appropriate that it be blessed by a parent or another family member.
  
  Blessing for Nativity Scenes or Christmas Mangers
- * All resources were taken from the USCCB or Loyola Press.