What Is Advent?
(And How Do I Use This Calendar?)

Prepare ye the way of the Lord.
--Isaiah 40:3

Audio: Listen to Thomas Merton's Poem "Advent"
(Free RealPlayer required)

Advent, a four-week period during which many Christians anticipate Jesus' birth, begins on December 2 this year. Those who celebrate Advent spend time preparing spiritually for the coming of the Jesus.

The Advent calendar is a popular tradition springing from this observance. Made of stiff cardboard, an Advent calendar is a large picture dotted with 25 numbered windows, representing December 1 through Christmas Day. The picture is often of Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus in Bethlehem, though it can also show a Santa scene. Each day, one window is opened, usually revealing a Bible verse or a small piece of chocolate. For maximum spiritual and physical refreshment, a combination of the two is recommended.

Though we can't promise you chocolate, each day of our interactive Advent calendar will focus on one aspect of this spiritual season. Click on the picture for today's date and find a package of special treats--music, articles, quizzes, and more. Just don't try to peek ahead! You'll have to come back tomorrow to see the next batch of offerings.

Go to Advent Calendar


Note on the calendar's symbols: Many of the images used have religious meaning. The Chi-Rho symbol in the center combines the initial letters of "Christ" in Greek.