Introduction
Every season of the Christian year teaches a unique way of being in relationship with the divine. Advent honors the way of repentance and continual conversion, rigorous purgation and passive expectancy. In Advent we are trained by steady, daily prayer, to say “yes” to being formed by divine compassion.
This booklet with its ancient prayers and contemporary art offers an opportunity to help craft a daily practice of prayer this holy season. You will find familiar collects from The Book of Common Prayer and the Great ‘O’ Antiphons beloved by Christians since the 5th century. The visual images may be used for meditation.
Traditionally, Advent candles in the home mark the four-week Advent observance. It is not necessary to make a complicated wreath – four simple candles on a bed of greens, or stones, or wood will do. Light one candle the first Sunday of Advent and each day of the week following, two candles the second week beginning on Sunday and so on. We suggest that you set aside a specific space and time for prayer. Prayer is nothing less than preparing for God to dwell within you. By praying you invite Eternity to enter time.
– S.G.
Observing
Advent Collaborators
Suzanne Guthrie
Susan R. Dixon
with
thanks to:
Zara Altair
Claudia McGehee
Christine Parson
Betsy Porter
Krystyna Sanderson
for permission to use their images
