The first Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of the church year, and we celebrate it on the fourth Sunday before Christmas.
Advent is a time of preparation and anticipation leading up to Christmas on 25 December. The word ‘Advent’ comes from the Latin word ‘adventus’ which means ‘coming’ or ‘arrival’.
There are two aspects to Advent. We are first of all preparing to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, God's own son, who came into the world more than 2000 years ago in Bethlehem.
At the same time, Advent gives us the opportunity to reflect on how we are waiting for Christ to return to earth on the last day. We can look forward to such a time with great hope, because through faith in Jesus, the end of the world will mean the beginning of a new life with Christ forever.
So Advent is a time for us to repent and believe – a time to celebrate the Light of the World in the midst of darkness.
Open Church
Throughout the Advent season, Bethlehem Lutheran Church is open to the public on weekdays. Members, friends and visitors are welcome to spend some time away from the pressures of the world and reflect and meditate.
Opening times are normally Monday to Friday, from 11am to 3pm, beginning on the first Monday during Advent up until the last weekday before Christmas Day. Please contact us to check opening times for the current Advent season.
Resources
View a collection of Advent Resources from around the world to enrich your spiritual life over Advent.