Christian Life

Advent Calendar 2011

Advent is a period of spiritual preparation in which many Christians make themselves ready for the coming, or birth of the Lord, Jesus Christ. During this time, Christians observe a season of prayer, fasting and repentance, followed by anticipation, hope and joy.

The season of Advent begins on the fourth Sunday prior to Christmas Day, or the Sunday which falls closest to November 30, and lasts through Christmas Eve, or December 24.

Many Christians celebrate Advent not only by thanking God for Christ’s first coming to Earth as a baby, but also for his presence among us today through the Holy Spirit and in preparation and anticipation of his final coming at the end of time.

On each day in Advent, find out the lessons from the Christmas story, using our online advent calendar.

1. Comfort

2. Appreciation

3. Foresight

4. Perseverence

5. Encouragement

6. Grace

7. Sincerity

8. Happiness

9. God

10. Opportunity

11. Good

12. Patience

13. Kindness

14. Learning

15. Compassion

16. Trust

17. Tolerance

18. Endurance

19. Attitude

20. Generosity

21. Equality

22. Purpose

23. Failure

24. Empathy

25. Understanding

26. Love

27. Prayer

28. Courage

29. The Nativity

The word “advent” comes from the Latin “adventus” meaning “arrival” or “coming,” particularly of something having great importance.