Advent: Resources and Preparing
As we begin a new Church year,
I’d like to share a few resources to help make your Advent meaningful and fulfilling.
USCCB’s Advent Resources and Calendar - There are a few nice resources here, including a calendar, but The Commentary on the Proper Prayers of Advent from the Roman Missal is a particularly nice accompaniment to the Mass that we don’t usually see. This allows you to see the prayers the priest reads but also explanation and detailed information of the background for each and meaning. It’s beautiful to reflect on the depth of our faith and how sacred every word of the Mass is, and this is a great guide for that!
Dynamic Catholic’s Daily Advent Experience (Free) - Although I haven’t done this in previous years, the reputation of both Dynamic Catholic and Matthew Kelly speak for themselves! A free daily email with some videos and content to boost your prayer… seems like a great thing to me! I have signed up myself!
Brush up on your Advent Knowledge! — This article from Catholic Answers gives a nice summary of some of the background behind Advent, what it is & what is isn’t. It’s important to reflect on the Church seasons
Attend an Online Retreat!!! — There are many of these going on in the next few weeks. One I’ve seen advertised around is an Advent Retreat through Lux U, founded by Leah Darrow, and it’s free!
Get on a solid daily email reflection — I inadvertently got onto this email list through a Catholic Company order, but I really like their little daily emails! It’s called the Morning Offering and the website is Good Catholic. While their premium content is on paid subscription, there is plenty of free content as well.
Praymorenovenas — Most everyone has heard of this site by John-Paul and Annie Deddens, but its a great reminder to help you keep track of novenas and when they start and finish.
Start journaling! — One of my favorite ways to reflect in prayer. I’ve attached an article from LifeTeen to help, but I find this so important to my prayer life.
Make some resolutions— for prayer, relationship with others, or even yourself. It’s the start of a new year in the Church so renewed, positive efforts in every area of life are always welcome!
Ask God what He wants you to find this season…. No article or resource here, just open your ears and heart. He’s there waiting for you!
What are you doing this advent?