Advent JoyDECEMBER 2015

2 | December 2015

TIPS FOR MAKING ADVENT EXTRA SPECIAL

ACTS OF MERCY ACTS OF LOVE

PAGE 24By Marilyn Rodrigues

HAVE AN OPINION FIND US

ON FACEBOOK

LIKE amp SHARE

Like

STAY UPDATED AND INSPIRED

FOLLOW US ON PINTEREST

Follow

GET THE LATEST NEWS

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

Follow

SEASONAL NOTES

O ANTIPHON

PAGE 26

2015 December | 3

BEGINNING YEAR C

5 FAST FACTS ABOUT ADVENT

PAGE 6By Marilyn Rodrigues

JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM AND MORE

EASY WAYS TO ADVENT JOY FOR THE KIDS

PAGE 16By Francine amp Kiara Pirola

2 | December 2015

TIPS FOR MAKING ADVENT EXTRA SPECIAL

ACTS OF MERCY ACTS OF LOVE

PAGE 24By Marilyn Rodrigues

HAVE AN OPINION FIND US

ON FACEBOOK

LIKE amp SHARE

Like

STAY UPDATED AND INSPIRED

FOLLOW US ON PINTEREST

Follow

GET THE LATEST NEWS

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

Follow

SEASONAL NOTES

O ANTIPHON

PAGE 26

2015 December | 3

BEGINNING YEAR C

5 FAST FACTS ABOUT ADVENT

PAGE 6By Marilyn Rodrigues

JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM AND MORE

EASY WAYS TO ADVENT JOY FOR THE KIDS

PAGE 16By Francine amp Kiara Pirola

TIPS FOR MAKING ADVENT EXTRA SPECIAL

ACTS OF MERCY ACTS OF LOVE

PAGE 24By Marilyn Rodrigues

HAVE AN OPINION FIND US

ON FACEBOOK

LIKE amp SHARE

Like

STAY UPDATED AND INSPIRED

FOLLOW US ON PINTEREST

Follow

GET THE LATEST NEWS

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

Follow

SEASONAL NOTES

O ANTIPHON

PAGE 26

2015 December | 3

BEGINNING YEAR C

5 FAST FACTS ABOUT ADVENT

PAGE 6By Marilyn Rodrigues

JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM AND MORE

EASY WAYS TO ADVENT JOY FOR THE KIDS

PAGE 16By Francine amp Kiara Pirola

God has brought us again to this beautiful Advent season of waiting and preparing for Christ to come into the world and into our hearts You are so good in this busy time of year to take time for some spiritual reading and planning for Christmas

Thank you for your support of CathFamily this year it has been sent out to all of our readers with much love Please let anyone know about it who you think would find it useful

FROM THE EDITOR

4 | December 2015

THIS MONTH

Dec 2015

Together home by home and family by family we are the salt and light of the world

May the Lordrsquos abundant blessings be on you and your family The whole CathFamily team - producers editor and designers - pray that you have an enjoyable Advent and a very happy and holy Christmas

Marilyn Rodrigues Editor

2015 December | 5

Thur 3 St Francis Xavier

Fri 4 St John Damascene

Sun 6 Advent 2 | St Nicholas

Mon 7 St Ambrose

Tue 8 Immaculate Conception

Wed 9 St Juan Diego

Fri 11 St Damasus 1

Sat 12 Our Lady of Guadalupe

Sun 13 Advent 3 | St Lucy

Mon 14 St John of the Cross

Sun 20 Advent 4

Mon 21 St Peter Canisius

Wed 23 St John of Kanty

Fri 25 Nativity of the Lord - Merry Christmas

Sat 26 St Stephen

Sun 27 Holy Family | St John

Mon 28 Holy Innocents

Tue 29 St Thomas Becket

Thu 31 St Sylvester I

6 | December 2015

1 When does Advent

begin and end

2 What is it for

3 Has it always been

celebrated by Catholics

4 Are there special Advent

prayers

5 What are the colours of

advent

2015 December | 7

8 | December 2015

WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4 CHRISTMAS

Waiting for the Shepherd

Waiting for Forgiveness

Waiting with Joy Waiting for the Son

Our Waiting is Over

Advent begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve The first Sunday of Advent is the start of each new Church year

2015 December | 9

What is it for

The word lsquoAdventrsquo comes from the Latin word adventus which means lsquocomingrsquo or lsquovisitrsquo

During this time we connect with the longing and expectant waiting of the Jewish people as they prepared for the advent of the Messiah We also look forward with similar longing and expectancy to the second advent of Christ that we have been promised

The Catechism points out both meanings ldquoWhen the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah for by sharing in the long preparation for the Saviourrsquos f irst coming the faithful renew their ardent desire for His second comingrdquo (No 524)

10 | December 2015

Has it always been celebrated by Catholics

2015 December | 11

The Advent tradition has evolved in the life of the Church There was an early form in Europe as a period of preparation for the Feast of the Epiphany when converts were traditionally baptised Like Lent it had an emphasis on prayer and fasting A similar practice spread to England

In Rome the Advent preparation seems to have appeared in the sixth century judging from homilies by Pope St Gregory the Great Over time it became more closely linked to Christmas At one stage there were five Advent Sundays until Pope Gregory VII (pope from 1073-1088) reduced the number to four

12 | December 2015

There are many but perhaps the most special ones are in The Divine Office which is part of the official liturgy of the Church The Office contains particular psalms and prayers for each day In the last week of Advent there are special antiphons before and after each of the psalms known as the ldquoOrdquo antiphons because they all begin with ldquoOrdquo

They are very beautiful calls for Jesus to come into the world filled with urgent longing and love of the Christ As we pray them ourselves they express our longing for Jesus to enter our hearts and world today and again in the fullness of time

Eg The last O Antiphon said on December 23 is

O Emmanuel you are our king and judge the One whom the peoples await and their Saviour O come and save us Lord our God

There are lots of Advent prayers you can use and adapt for the home or school Check out our seasonal notes for our child-friendly Advent prayer service

Are there special Advent prayers

2015 December | 13

Are there special Advent prayers

14 | December 2015

Advent colours are purple and rose At Mass the priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles are purple except for the third Sunday of the season Gaudete Sunday when the colour is rose for joyThere is also a white candle for Christmas Day itself usually in the middle of the Advent wreath

What are the colours of advent

Priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles

Gaudete Sunday when the colour is pink for joy

Rose

Purple

2015 December | 15

What are the colours of advent While the season is about waiting and

preparing ourselves spiritually with prayer and deeds of kindness and mercy we also have a pre-emptive day of joy Guadete (Latin for lsquojoyrsquo) Sunday is the third Sunday in Advent

We know that our waiting is nearly over that Christ did come into the world and we will celebrate his birthday soon

Sources The Liturgical Season of Advent visit here

Guadete Sunday | Advent 3

Rose

THIS MONTH

Dec 2015

Together home by home and family by family we are the salt and light of the world

May the Lordrsquos abundant blessings be on you and your family The whole CathFamily team - producers editor and designers - pray that you have an enjoyable Advent and a very happy and holy Christmas

Marilyn Rodrigues Editor

2015 December | 5

Thur 3 St Francis Xavier

Fri 4 St John Damascene

Sun 6 Advent 2 | St Nicholas

Mon 7 St Ambrose

Tue 8 Immaculate Conception

Wed 9 St Juan Diego

Fri 11 St Damasus 1

Sat 12 Our Lady of Guadalupe

Sun 13 Advent 3 | St Lucy

Mon 14 St John of the Cross

Sun 20 Advent 4

Mon 21 St Peter Canisius

Wed 23 St John of Kanty

Fri 25 Nativity of the Lord - Merry Christmas

Sat 26 St Stephen

Sun 27 Holy Family | St John

Mon 28 Holy Innocents

Tue 29 St Thomas Becket

Thu 31 St Sylvester I

6 | December 2015

1 When does Advent

begin and end

2 What is it for

3 Has it always been

celebrated by Catholics

4 Are there special Advent

prayers

5 What are the colours of

advent

2015 December | 7

8 | December 2015

WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4 CHRISTMAS

Waiting for the Shepherd

Waiting for Forgiveness

Waiting with Joy Waiting for the Son

Our Waiting is Over

Advent begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve The first Sunday of Advent is the start of each new Church year

2015 December | 9

What is it for

The word lsquoAdventrsquo comes from the Latin word adventus which means lsquocomingrsquo or lsquovisitrsquo

During this time we connect with the longing and expectant waiting of the Jewish people as they prepared for the advent of the Messiah We also look forward with similar longing and expectancy to the second advent of Christ that we have been promised

The Catechism points out both meanings ldquoWhen the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah for by sharing in the long preparation for the Saviourrsquos f irst coming the faithful renew their ardent desire for His second comingrdquo (No 524)

10 | December 2015

Has it always been celebrated by Catholics

2015 December | 11

The Advent tradition has evolved in the life of the Church There was an early form in Europe as a period of preparation for the Feast of the Epiphany when converts were traditionally baptised Like Lent it had an emphasis on prayer and fasting A similar practice spread to England

In Rome the Advent preparation seems to have appeared in the sixth century judging from homilies by Pope St Gregory the Great Over time it became more closely linked to Christmas At one stage there were five Advent Sundays until Pope Gregory VII (pope from 1073-1088) reduced the number to four

12 | December 2015

There are many but perhaps the most special ones are in The Divine Office which is part of the official liturgy of the Church The Office contains particular psalms and prayers for each day In the last week of Advent there are special antiphons before and after each of the psalms known as the ldquoOrdquo antiphons because they all begin with ldquoOrdquo

They are very beautiful calls for Jesus to come into the world filled with urgent longing and love of the Christ As we pray them ourselves they express our longing for Jesus to enter our hearts and world today and again in the fullness of time

Eg The last O Antiphon said on December 23 is

O Emmanuel you are our king and judge the One whom the peoples await and their Saviour O come and save us Lord our God

There are lots of Advent prayers you can use and adapt for the home or school Check out our seasonal notes for our child-friendly Advent prayer service

Are there special Advent prayers

2015 December | 13

Are there special Advent prayers

14 | December 2015

Advent colours are purple and rose At Mass the priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles are purple except for the third Sunday of the season Gaudete Sunday when the colour is rose for joyThere is also a white candle for Christmas Day itself usually in the middle of the Advent wreath

What are the colours of advent

Priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles

Gaudete Sunday when the colour is pink for joy

Rose

Purple

2015 December | 15

What are the colours of advent While the season is about waiting and

preparing ourselves spiritually with prayer and deeds of kindness and mercy we also have a pre-emptive day of joy Guadete (Latin for lsquojoyrsquo) Sunday is the third Sunday in Advent

We know that our waiting is nearly over that Christ did come into the world and we will celebrate his birthday soon

Sources The Liturgical Season of Advent visit here

Guadete Sunday | Advent 3

Rose

6 | December 2015

1 When does Advent

begin and end

2 What is it for

3 Has it always been

celebrated by Catholics

4 Are there special Advent

prayers

5 What are the colours of

advent

2015 December | 7

8 | December 2015

WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4 CHRISTMAS

Waiting for the Shepherd

Waiting for Forgiveness

Waiting with Joy Waiting for the Son

Our Waiting is Over

Advent begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve The first Sunday of Advent is the start of each new Church year

2015 December | 9

What is it for

The word lsquoAdventrsquo comes from the Latin word adventus which means lsquocomingrsquo or lsquovisitrsquo

During this time we connect with the longing and expectant waiting of the Jewish people as they prepared for the advent of the Messiah We also look forward with similar longing and expectancy to the second advent of Christ that we have been promised

The Catechism points out both meanings ldquoWhen the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah for by sharing in the long preparation for the Saviourrsquos f irst coming the faithful renew their ardent desire for His second comingrdquo (No 524)

10 | December 2015

Has it always been celebrated by Catholics

2015 December | 11

The Advent tradition has evolved in the life of the Church There was an early form in Europe as a period of preparation for the Feast of the Epiphany when converts were traditionally baptised Like Lent it had an emphasis on prayer and fasting A similar practice spread to England

In Rome the Advent preparation seems to have appeared in the sixth century judging from homilies by Pope St Gregory the Great Over time it became more closely linked to Christmas At one stage there were five Advent Sundays until Pope Gregory VII (pope from 1073-1088) reduced the number to four

12 | December 2015

There are many but perhaps the most special ones are in The Divine Office which is part of the official liturgy of the Church The Office contains particular psalms and prayers for each day In the last week of Advent there are special antiphons before and after each of the psalms known as the ldquoOrdquo antiphons because they all begin with ldquoOrdquo

They are very beautiful calls for Jesus to come into the world filled with urgent longing and love of the Christ As we pray them ourselves they express our longing for Jesus to enter our hearts and world today and again in the fullness of time

Eg The last O Antiphon said on December 23 is

O Emmanuel you are our king and judge the One whom the peoples await and their Saviour O come and save us Lord our God

There are lots of Advent prayers you can use and adapt for the home or school Check out our seasonal notes for our child-friendly Advent prayer service

Are there special Advent prayers

2015 December | 13

Are there special Advent prayers

14 | December 2015

Advent colours are purple and rose At Mass the priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles are purple except for the third Sunday of the season Gaudete Sunday when the colour is rose for joyThere is also a white candle for Christmas Day itself usually in the middle of the Advent wreath

What are the colours of advent

Priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles

Gaudete Sunday when the colour is pink for joy

Rose

Purple

2015 December | 15

What are the colours of advent While the season is about waiting and

preparing ourselves spiritually with prayer and deeds of kindness and mercy we also have a pre-emptive day of joy Guadete (Latin for lsquojoyrsquo) Sunday is the third Sunday in Advent

We know that our waiting is nearly over that Christ did come into the world and we will celebrate his birthday soon

Sources The Liturgical Season of Advent visit here

Guadete Sunday | Advent 3

Rose

2015 December | 7

8 | December 2015

WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4 CHRISTMAS

Waiting for the Shepherd

Waiting for Forgiveness

Waiting with Joy Waiting for the Son

Our Waiting is Over

Advent begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve The first Sunday of Advent is the start of each new Church year

2015 December | 9

What is it for

The word lsquoAdventrsquo comes from the Latin word adventus which means lsquocomingrsquo or lsquovisitrsquo

During this time we connect with the longing and expectant waiting of the Jewish people as they prepared for the advent of the Messiah We also look forward with similar longing and expectancy to the second advent of Christ that we have been promised

The Catechism points out both meanings ldquoWhen the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah for by sharing in the long preparation for the Saviourrsquos f irst coming the faithful renew their ardent desire for His second comingrdquo (No 524)

10 | December 2015

Has it always been celebrated by Catholics

2015 December | 11

The Advent tradition has evolved in the life of the Church There was an early form in Europe as a period of preparation for the Feast of the Epiphany when converts were traditionally baptised Like Lent it had an emphasis on prayer and fasting A similar practice spread to England

In Rome the Advent preparation seems to have appeared in the sixth century judging from homilies by Pope St Gregory the Great Over time it became more closely linked to Christmas At one stage there were five Advent Sundays until Pope Gregory VII (pope from 1073-1088) reduced the number to four

12 | December 2015

There are many but perhaps the most special ones are in The Divine Office which is part of the official liturgy of the Church The Office contains particular psalms and prayers for each day In the last week of Advent there are special antiphons before and after each of the psalms known as the ldquoOrdquo antiphons because they all begin with ldquoOrdquo

They are very beautiful calls for Jesus to come into the world filled with urgent longing and love of the Christ As we pray them ourselves they express our longing for Jesus to enter our hearts and world today and again in the fullness of time

Eg The last O Antiphon said on December 23 is

O Emmanuel you are our king and judge the One whom the peoples await and their Saviour O come and save us Lord our God

There are lots of Advent prayers you can use and adapt for the home or school Check out our seasonal notes for our child-friendly Advent prayer service

Are there special Advent prayers

2015 December | 13

Are there special Advent prayers

14 | December 2015

Advent colours are purple and rose At Mass the priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles are purple except for the third Sunday of the season Gaudete Sunday when the colour is rose for joyThere is also a white candle for Christmas Day itself usually in the middle of the Advent wreath

What are the colours of advent

Priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles

Gaudete Sunday when the colour is pink for joy

Rose

Purple

2015 December | 15

What are the colours of advent While the season is about waiting and

preparing ourselves spiritually with prayer and deeds of kindness and mercy we also have a pre-emptive day of joy Guadete (Latin for lsquojoyrsquo) Sunday is the third Sunday in Advent

We know that our waiting is nearly over that Christ did come into the world and we will celebrate his birthday soon

Sources The Liturgical Season of Advent visit here

Guadete Sunday | Advent 3

Rose

8 | December 2015

WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4 CHRISTMAS

Waiting for the Shepherd

Waiting for Forgiveness

Waiting with Joy Waiting for the Son

Our Waiting is Over

Advent begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve The first Sunday of Advent is the start of each new Church year

2015 December | 9

What is it for

The word lsquoAdventrsquo comes from the Latin word adventus which means lsquocomingrsquo or lsquovisitrsquo

During this time we connect with the longing and expectant waiting of the Jewish people as they prepared for the advent of the Messiah We also look forward with similar longing and expectancy to the second advent of Christ that we have been promised

The Catechism points out both meanings ldquoWhen the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah for by sharing in the long preparation for the Saviourrsquos f irst coming the faithful renew their ardent desire for His second comingrdquo (No 524)

10 | December 2015

Has it always been celebrated by Catholics

2015 December | 11

The Advent tradition has evolved in the life of the Church There was an early form in Europe as a period of preparation for the Feast of the Epiphany when converts were traditionally baptised Like Lent it had an emphasis on prayer and fasting A similar practice spread to England

In Rome the Advent preparation seems to have appeared in the sixth century judging from homilies by Pope St Gregory the Great Over time it became more closely linked to Christmas At one stage there were five Advent Sundays until Pope Gregory VII (pope from 1073-1088) reduced the number to four

12 | December 2015

There are many but perhaps the most special ones are in The Divine Office which is part of the official liturgy of the Church The Office contains particular psalms and prayers for each day In the last week of Advent there are special antiphons before and after each of the psalms known as the ldquoOrdquo antiphons because they all begin with ldquoOrdquo

They are very beautiful calls for Jesus to come into the world filled with urgent longing and love of the Christ As we pray them ourselves they express our longing for Jesus to enter our hearts and world today and again in the fullness of time

Eg The last O Antiphon said on December 23 is

O Emmanuel you are our king and judge the One whom the peoples await and their Saviour O come and save us Lord our God

There are lots of Advent prayers you can use and adapt for the home or school Check out our seasonal notes for our child-friendly Advent prayer service

Are there special Advent prayers

2015 December | 13

Are there special Advent prayers

14 | December 2015

Advent colours are purple and rose At Mass the priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles are purple except for the third Sunday of the season Gaudete Sunday when the colour is rose for joyThere is also a white candle for Christmas Day itself usually in the middle of the Advent wreath

What are the colours of advent

Priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles

Gaudete Sunday when the colour is pink for joy

Rose

Purple

2015 December | 15

What are the colours of advent While the season is about waiting and

preparing ourselves spiritually with prayer and deeds of kindness and mercy we also have a pre-emptive day of joy Guadete (Latin for lsquojoyrsquo) Sunday is the third Sunday in Advent

We know that our waiting is nearly over that Christ did come into the world and we will celebrate his birthday soon

Sources The Liturgical Season of Advent visit here

Guadete Sunday | Advent 3

Rose

2015 December | 9

What is it for

The word lsquoAdventrsquo comes from the Latin word adventus which means lsquocomingrsquo or lsquovisitrsquo

During this time we connect with the longing and expectant waiting of the Jewish people as they prepared for the advent of the Messiah We also look forward with similar longing and expectancy to the second advent of Christ that we have been promised

The Catechism points out both meanings ldquoWhen the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah for by sharing in the long preparation for the Saviourrsquos f irst coming the faithful renew their ardent desire for His second comingrdquo (No 524)

10 | December 2015

Has it always been celebrated by Catholics

2015 December | 11

The Advent tradition has evolved in the life of the Church There was an early form in Europe as a period of preparation for the Feast of the Epiphany when converts were traditionally baptised Like Lent it had an emphasis on prayer and fasting A similar practice spread to England

In Rome the Advent preparation seems to have appeared in the sixth century judging from homilies by Pope St Gregory the Great Over time it became more closely linked to Christmas At one stage there were five Advent Sundays until Pope Gregory VII (pope from 1073-1088) reduced the number to four

12 | December 2015

There are many but perhaps the most special ones are in The Divine Office which is part of the official liturgy of the Church The Office contains particular psalms and prayers for each day In the last week of Advent there are special antiphons before and after each of the psalms known as the ldquoOrdquo antiphons because they all begin with ldquoOrdquo

They are very beautiful calls for Jesus to come into the world filled with urgent longing and love of the Christ As we pray them ourselves they express our longing for Jesus to enter our hearts and world today and again in the fullness of time

Eg The last O Antiphon said on December 23 is

O Emmanuel you are our king and judge the One whom the peoples await and their Saviour O come and save us Lord our God

There are lots of Advent prayers you can use and adapt for the home or school Check out our seasonal notes for our child-friendly Advent prayer service

Are there special Advent prayers

2015 December | 13

Are there special Advent prayers

14 | December 2015

Advent colours are purple and rose At Mass the priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles are purple except for the third Sunday of the season Gaudete Sunday when the colour is rose for joyThere is also a white candle for Christmas Day itself usually in the middle of the Advent wreath

What are the colours of advent

Priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles

Gaudete Sunday when the colour is pink for joy

Rose

Purple

2015 December | 15

What are the colours of advent While the season is about waiting and

preparing ourselves spiritually with prayer and deeds of kindness and mercy we also have a pre-emptive day of joy Guadete (Latin for lsquojoyrsquo) Sunday is the third Sunday in Advent

We know that our waiting is nearly over that Christ did come into the world and we will celebrate his birthday soon

Sources The Liturgical Season of Advent visit here

Guadete Sunday | Advent 3

Rose

10 | December 2015

Has it always been celebrated by Catholics

2015 December | 11

The Advent tradition has evolved in the life of the Church There was an early form in Europe as a period of preparation for the Feast of the Epiphany when converts were traditionally baptised Like Lent it had an emphasis on prayer and fasting A similar practice spread to England

In Rome the Advent preparation seems to have appeared in the sixth century judging from homilies by Pope St Gregory the Great Over time it became more closely linked to Christmas At one stage there were five Advent Sundays until Pope Gregory VII (pope from 1073-1088) reduced the number to four

12 | December 2015

There are many but perhaps the most special ones are in The Divine Office which is part of the official liturgy of the Church The Office contains particular psalms and prayers for each day In the last week of Advent there are special antiphons before and after each of the psalms known as the ldquoOrdquo antiphons because they all begin with ldquoOrdquo

They are very beautiful calls for Jesus to come into the world filled with urgent longing and love of the Christ As we pray them ourselves they express our longing for Jesus to enter our hearts and world today and again in the fullness of time

Eg The last O Antiphon said on December 23 is

O Emmanuel you are our king and judge the One whom the peoples await and their Saviour O come and save us Lord our God

There are lots of Advent prayers you can use and adapt for the home or school Check out our seasonal notes for our child-friendly Advent prayer service

Are there special Advent prayers

2015 December | 13

Are there special Advent prayers

14 | December 2015

Advent colours are purple and rose At Mass the priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles are purple except for the third Sunday of the season Gaudete Sunday when the colour is rose for joyThere is also a white candle for Christmas Day itself usually in the middle of the Advent wreath

What are the colours of advent

Priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles

Gaudete Sunday when the colour is pink for joy

Rose

Purple

2015 December | 15

What are the colours of advent While the season is about waiting and

preparing ourselves spiritually with prayer and deeds of kindness and mercy we also have a pre-emptive day of joy Guadete (Latin for lsquojoyrsquo) Sunday is the third Sunday in Advent

We know that our waiting is nearly over that Christ did come into the world and we will celebrate his birthday soon

Sources The Liturgical Season of Advent visit here

Guadete Sunday | Advent 3

Rose

2015 December | 11

The Advent tradition has evolved in the life of the Church There was an early form in Europe as a period of preparation for the Feast of the Epiphany when converts were traditionally baptised Like Lent it had an emphasis on prayer and fasting A similar practice spread to England

In Rome the Advent preparation seems to have appeared in the sixth century judging from homilies by Pope St Gregory the Great Over time it became more closely linked to Christmas At one stage there were five Advent Sundays until Pope Gregory VII (pope from 1073-1088) reduced the number to four

12 | December 2015

There are many but perhaps the most special ones are in The Divine Office which is part of the official liturgy of the Church The Office contains particular psalms and prayers for each day In the last week of Advent there are special antiphons before and after each of the psalms known as the ldquoOrdquo antiphons because they all begin with ldquoOrdquo

They are very beautiful calls for Jesus to come into the world filled with urgent longing and love of the Christ As we pray them ourselves they express our longing for Jesus to enter our hearts and world today and again in the fullness of time

Eg The last O Antiphon said on December 23 is

O Emmanuel you are our king and judge the One whom the peoples await and their Saviour O come and save us Lord our God

There are lots of Advent prayers you can use and adapt for the home or school Check out our seasonal notes for our child-friendly Advent prayer service

Are there special Advent prayers

2015 December | 13

Are there special Advent prayers

14 | December 2015

Advent colours are purple and rose At Mass the priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles are purple except for the third Sunday of the season Gaudete Sunday when the colour is rose for joyThere is also a white candle for Christmas Day itself usually in the middle of the Advent wreath

What are the colours of advent

Priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles

Gaudete Sunday when the colour is pink for joy

Rose

Purple

2015 December | 15

What are the colours of advent While the season is about waiting and

preparing ourselves spiritually with prayer and deeds of kindness and mercy we also have a pre-emptive day of joy Guadete (Latin for lsquojoyrsquo) Sunday is the third Sunday in Advent

We know that our waiting is nearly over that Christ did come into the world and we will celebrate his birthday soon

Sources The Liturgical Season of Advent visit here

Guadete Sunday | Advent 3

Rose

12 | December 2015

There are many but perhaps the most special ones are in The Divine Office which is part of the official liturgy of the Church The Office contains particular psalms and prayers for each day In the last week of Advent there are special antiphons before and after each of the psalms known as the ldquoOrdquo antiphons because they all begin with ldquoOrdquo

They are very beautiful calls for Jesus to come into the world filled with urgent longing and love of the Christ As we pray them ourselves they express our longing for Jesus to enter our hearts and world today and again in the fullness of time

Eg The last O Antiphon said on December 23 is

O Emmanuel you are our king and judge the One whom the peoples await and their Saviour O come and save us Lord our God

There are lots of Advent prayers you can use and adapt for the home or school Check out our seasonal notes for our child-friendly Advent prayer service

Are there special Advent prayers

2015 December | 13

Are there special Advent prayers

14 | December 2015

Advent colours are purple and rose At Mass the priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles are purple except for the third Sunday of the season Gaudete Sunday when the colour is rose for joyThere is also a white candle for Christmas Day itself usually in the middle of the Advent wreath

What are the colours of advent

Priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles

Gaudete Sunday when the colour is pink for joy

Rose

Purple

2015 December | 15

What are the colours of advent While the season is about waiting and

preparing ourselves spiritually with prayer and deeds of kindness and mercy we also have a pre-emptive day of joy Guadete (Latin for lsquojoyrsquo) Sunday is the third Sunday in Advent

We know that our waiting is nearly over that Christ did come into the world and we will celebrate his birthday soon

Sources The Liturgical Season of Advent visit here

Guadete Sunday | Advent 3

Rose

2015 December | 13

Are there special Advent prayers

14 | December 2015

Advent colours are purple and rose At Mass the priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles are purple except for the third Sunday of the season Gaudete Sunday when the colour is rose for joyThere is also a white candle for Christmas Day itself usually in the middle of the Advent wreath

What are the colours of advent

Priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles

Gaudete Sunday when the colour is pink for joy

Rose

Purple

2015 December | 15

What are the colours of advent While the season is about waiting and

preparing ourselves spiritually with prayer and deeds of kindness and mercy we also have a pre-emptive day of joy Guadete (Latin for lsquojoyrsquo) Sunday is the third Sunday in Advent

We know that our waiting is nearly over that Christ did come into the world and we will celebrate his birthday soon

Sources The Liturgical Season of Advent visit here

Guadete Sunday | Advent 3

Rose

14 | December 2015

Advent colours are purple and rose At Mass the priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles are purple except for the third Sunday of the season Gaudete Sunday when the colour is rose for joyThere is also a white candle for Christmas Day itself usually in the middle of the Advent wreath

What are the colours of advent

Priestrsquos vestments altar cloths and Advent candles

Gaudete Sunday when the colour is pink for joy

Rose

Purple

2015 December | 15

What are the colours of advent While the season is about waiting and

preparing ourselves spiritually with prayer and deeds of kindness and mercy we also have a pre-emptive day of joy Guadete (Latin for lsquojoyrsquo) Sunday is the third Sunday in Advent

We know that our waiting is nearly over that Christ did come into the world and we will celebrate his birthday soon

Sources The Liturgical Season of Advent visit here

Guadete Sunday | Advent 3

Rose

2015 December | 15

What are the colours of advent While the season is about waiting and

preparing ourselves spiritually with prayer and deeds of kindness and mercy we also have a pre-emptive day of joy Guadete (Latin for lsquojoyrsquo) Sunday is the third Sunday in Advent

We know that our waiting is nearly over that Christ did come into the world and we will celebrate his birthday soon

Sources The Liturgical Season of Advent visit here

Guadete Sunday | Advent 3

Rose

16 | December 2015

Here are some simple ways to bring Advent joy to children while helping them to learn about and personalise some of our rich faith traditions

By Francine amp Kiara Pirola

Advent Joy For the

Kids

2015 December | 17

There are some beautiful religious calendars that can be purchased

through Christian book shops ndash avoid the commercialised chocolate versions that

feature toys and reindeers

1 Advent Calendars

18 | December 2015

2Mary MaryhellipIf any season belongs to Mary it is surely Advent Go to prayer with Mary and ask her to give you her sense of conviction and eager anticipation of Jesusrsquo renewed presence in the world

December 8 marks the feast of her conception and December 12 is the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

2015 December | 17

There are some beautiful religious calendars that can be purchased

through Christian book shops ndash avoid the commercialised chocolate versions that

feature toys and reindeers

1 Advent Calendars

18 | December 2015

2Mary MaryhellipIf any season belongs to Mary it is surely Advent Go to prayer with Mary and ask her to give you her sense of conviction and eager anticipation of Jesusrsquo renewed presence in the world

December 8 marks the feast of her conception and December 12 is the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

18 | December 2015

2Mary MaryhellipIf any season belongs to Mary it is surely Advent Go to prayer with Mary and ask her to give you her sense of conviction and eager anticipation of Jesusrsquo renewed presence in the world

December 8 marks the feast of her conception and December 12 is the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

2015 December | 19

20 | December 2015

3 Journey to BethlehemUsing the pieces of your family Nativity scene set up the stable in your prayer space Keep Jesus hidden Place Mary Joseph and the donkey in a remote location

Each day the children move them closer to their final destination Shepherds sheep and angels can all journey to Bethlehem arriving at the stable on Christmas day when Jesus also appears The Wise Men take longer arriving on the Feast of the Epiphany

2015 December | 21

4 Advent CandleUsing a tall candle marked with 24 lines to indicate the 24 days of December leading up to Christmas light the candle each day for your family prayers As the candle gets shorter children can count the number of days left to Christmas by the number of lines visible on the candle

25242322212019181716151413121110987654321 Jesus birthday

22 | December 2015

5 The Jesse Tree

Each day of Advent place a new ornament symbolising one of the Old Testament ancestors of Jesus (for example Adam and Eve Abraham Moses Isaiah etc) Check out CathFamilyrsquos Jesse Tree complete with instructions prayers and downloadable template

There are many ways to create a Jesse Tree feature See CathFamilyorg for ideas

2015 December | 21

4 Advent CandleUsing a tall candle marked with 24 lines to indicate the 24 days of December leading up to Christmas light the candle each day for your family prayers As the candle gets shorter children can count the number of days left to Christmas by the number of lines visible on the candle

25242322212019181716151413121110987654321 Jesus birthday

22 | December 2015

5 The Jesse Tree

Each day of Advent place a new ornament symbolising one of the Old Testament ancestors of Jesus (for example Adam and Eve Abraham Moses Isaiah etc) Check out CathFamilyrsquos Jesse Tree complete with instructions prayers and downloadable template

There are many ways to create a Jesse Tree feature See CathFamilyorg for ideas

22 | December 2015

5 The Jesse Tree

Each day of Advent place a new ornament symbolising one of the Old Testament ancestors of Jesus (for example Adam and Eve Abraham Moses Isaiah etc) Check out CathFamilyrsquos Jesse Tree complete with instructions prayers and downloadable template

There are many ways to create a Jesse Tree feature See CathFamilyorg for ideas

2015 December | 23

6 Advent WreathThe rich symbolism of an Advent Wreath connects families and churches to the sense of anticipation and joy of the season CathFamily has some great options for your family to get involved with this ancient tradition

This nature wreath needs fresh leaves and flowers daily

Craft Advent Wreath Make your own natural Advent wreath CLICK HERE

24 | December 2015

Another special theme of Advent along with waiting is mercy Advent is an intense time of waiting for God the Fatherrsquos great act of mercy ndash sending the promised Saviour into the world As Catholics we know that when he came after he rose from death he also instituted the Sacrament of mercy Reconciliation

So as well as being a time of waiting and expectant joy it is also a time of receiving and giving Godrsquos ever-generous mercy Receiving it through the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Confession and giving it through acts of almsgiving and other kindnesses to others

One way to remember these two aspects of mercy through Advent is to set up a nativity crib (without the baby Jesus) and keep a basket of straw or cotton balls nearby

Each time someone does a thoughtful or generous act spends extra time in prayer or attends an extra Mass they can add one straw or cotton ball to the crib Hopefully Jesus will have a super-comfy manger to rest in by Christmas morning

Year of Mercy Dec 8 2015 - Nov 20 2016

2015 December | 25

Each time you do a thoughtful or generous act add one straw or cotton ball to the crib by christmas Jesus will have a super-comfy manger

26 | December 2015

SEASONAL NOTES

december

2015 December | 27

28 | December 2015

December 17

O Wisdom O holy Word of God you govern all creation with your strong yet tender care Come and show your people the way to salvation

December 18

O Sacred Lord of ancient Israel who showed yourself to Moses in the burning bush who gave him the holy law on Sinai mountain come stretch out your mighty hand to set us free

December 19

O Flower of Jessersquos stem you have been raised up as a sign for all peoples kings stand silent in your presence the nations bow down in worship before you Come let nothing keep you from coming to our aid

December 20

O Key of David and sceptre of the house of Israel you open and no one can shut you shut and no one can open come and lead the prisoners from the prison house those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death

The O antiphons

O my goodness itrsquos christmas next week

For the seven days just before Christmas the Divine Office (daily prayer book of the Church) resounds with joyful praise known as the lsquoOrsquo Antiphons

For those of us who somehow manage to get almost to the end of Advent without having done any of the spiritual preparation we had planned - herersquos a way to make the last week lsquoOrsquo so sweet

O Flo

wer o

f Jess

ersquos stem come Let nothing keep you from helping us

2015 December | 29

Older children may find intriguing the fact that there is a code in the Churchrsquos lsquoOrsquo Antiphons the short phrases said during Evening Prayer of the Church in the last week before Christmas

Craft O Antiphon Download our printable CLICK HERE

December 21

O Radiant Dawn splendor of eternal light sun of justice come shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death

December 22

O King of all the nations the only joy of every human heart O Keystone of the mighty arch of man come and save the creature you fashioned from the dust

December 23

O Emmanuel king and lawgiver desire of the nations Saviour of all people come and set us free Lord our God

(Taken from divineofficeorg)

Based on the prophecies of Isaiah each antiphon is a name given to Christ

17 O Sapientia = Oh Wisdom

18 O Adonai = Oh Lord of Ancient Israel

19 O Radix Jesse = Oh Flower of Jesse

20 O Clavis David = Oh Key of David

21 O Oriens = Oh Radient Dawn

22 O Rex Gentium = Oh King of all Peoples

23 O Emmanuel = Oh God with Us

CODEThe O Antiphon DECodeD

2015 December | 25

Each time you do a thoughtful or generous act add one straw or cotton ball to the crib by christmas Jesus will have a super-comfy manger

26 | December 2015

SEASONAL NOTES

december

2015 December | 27

28 | December 2015

December 17

O Wisdom O holy Word of God you govern all creation with your strong yet tender care Come and show your people the way to salvation

December 18

O Sacred Lord of ancient Israel who showed yourself to Moses in the burning bush who gave him the holy law on Sinai mountain come stretch out your mighty hand to set us free

December 19

O Flower of Jessersquos stem you have been raised up as a sign for all peoples kings stand silent in your presence the nations bow down in worship before you Come let nothing keep you from coming to our aid

December 20

O Key of David and sceptre of the house of Israel you open and no one can shut you shut and no one can open come and lead the prisoners from the prison house those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death

The O antiphons

O my goodness itrsquos christmas next week

For the seven days just before Christmas the Divine Office (daily prayer book of the Church) resounds with joyful praise known as the lsquoOrsquo Antiphons

For those of us who somehow manage to get almost to the end of Advent without having done any of the spiritual preparation we had planned - herersquos a way to make the last week lsquoOrsquo so sweet

O Flo

wer o

f Jess

ersquos stem come Let nothing keep you from helping us

2015 December | 29

Older children may find intriguing the fact that there is a code in the Churchrsquos lsquoOrsquo Antiphons the short phrases said during Evening Prayer of the Church in the last week before Christmas

Craft O Antiphon Download our printable CLICK HERE

December 21

O Radiant Dawn splendor of eternal light sun of justice come shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death

December 22

O King of all the nations the only joy of every human heart O Keystone of the mighty arch of man come and save the creature you fashioned from the dust

December 23

O Emmanuel king and lawgiver desire of the nations Saviour of all people come and set us free Lord our God

(Taken from divineofficeorg)

Based on the prophecies of Isaiah each antiphon is a name given to Christ

17 O Sapientia = Oh Wisdom

18 O Adonai = Oh Lord of Ancient Israel

19 O Radix Jesse = Oh Flower of Jesse

20 O Clavis David = Oh Key of David

21 O Oriens = Oh Radient Dawn

22 O Rex Gentium = Oh King of all Peoples

23 O Emmanuel = Oh God with Us

CODEThe O Antiphon DECodeD

26 | December 2015

SEASONAL NOTES

december

2015 December | 27

28 | December 2015

December 17

O Wisdom O holy Word of God you govern all creation with your strong yet tender care Come and show your people the way to salvation

December 18

O Sacred Lord of ancient Israel who showed yourself to Moses in the burning bush who gave him the holy law on Sinai mountain come stretch out your mighty hand to set us free

December 19

O Flower of Jessersquos stem you have been raised up as a sign for all peoples kings stand silent in your presence the nations bow down in worship before you Come let nothing keep you from coming to our aid

December 20

O Key of David and sceptre of the house of Israel you open and no one can shut you shut and no one can open come and lead the prisoners from the prison house those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death

The O antiphons

O my goodness itrsquos christmas next week

For the seven days just before Christmas the Divine Office (daily prayer book of the Church) resounds with joyful praise known as the lsquoOrsquo Antiphons

For those of us who somehow manage to get almost to the end of Advent without having done any of the spiritual preparation we had planned - herersquos a way to make the last week lsquoOrsquo so sweet

O Flo

wer o

f Jess

ersquos stem come Let nothing keep you from helping us

2015 December | 29

Older children may find intriguing the fact that there is a code in the Churchrsquos lsquoOrsquo Antiphons the short phrases said during Evening Prayer of the Church in the last week before Christmas

Craft O Antiphon Download our printable CLICK HERE

December 21

O Radiant Dawn splendor of eternal light sun of justice come shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death

December 22

O King of all the nations the only joy of every human heart O Keystone of the mighty arch of man come and save the creature you fashioned from the dust

December 23

O Emmanuel king and lawgiver desire of the nations Saviour of all people come and set us free Lord our God

(Taken from divineofficeorg)

Based on the prophecies of Isaiah each antiphon is a name given to Christ

17 O Sapientia = Oh Wisdom

18 O Adonai = Oh Lord of Ancient Israel

19 O Radix Jesse = Oh Flower of Jesse

20 O Clavis David = Oh Key of David

21 O Oriens = Oh Radient Dawn

22 O Rex Gentium = Oh King of all Peoples

23 O Emmanuel = Oh God with Us

CODEThe O Antiphon DECodeD

SEASONAL NOTES

december

2015 December | 27

28 | December 2015

December 17

O Wisdom O holy Word of God you govern all creation with your strong yet tender care Come and show your people the way to salvation

December 18

O Sacred Lord of ancient Israel who showed yourself to Moses in the burning bush who gave him the holy law on Sinai mountain come stretch out your mighty hand to set us free

December 19

O Flower of Jessersquos stem you have been raised up as a sign for all peoples kings stand silent in your presence the nations bow down in worship before you Come let nothing keep you from coming to our aid

December 20

O Key of David and sceptre of the house of Israel you open and no one can shut you shut and no one can open come and lead the prisoners from the prison house those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death

The O antiphons

O my goodness itrsquos christmas next week

For the seven days just before Christmas the Divine Office (daily prayer book of the Church) resounds with joyful praise known as the lsquoOrsquo Antiphons

For those of us who somehow manage to get almost to the end of Advent without having done any of the spiritual preparation we had planned - herersquos a way to make the last week lsquoOrsquo so sweet

O Flo

wer o

f Jess

ersquos stem come Let nothing keep you from helping us

2015 December | 29

Older children may find intriguing the fact that there is a code in the Churchrsquos lsquoOrsquo Antiphons the short phrases said during Evening Prayer of the Church in the last week before Christmas

Craft O Antiphon Download our printable CLICK HERE

December 21

O Radiant Dawn splendor of eternal light sun of justice come shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death

December 22

O King of all the nations the only joy of every human heart O Keystone of the mighty arch of man come and save the creature you fashioned from the dust

December 23

O Emmanuel king and lawgiver desire of the nations Saviour of all people come and set us free Lord our God

(Taken from divineofficeorg)

Based on the prophecies of Isaiah each antiphon is a name given to Christ

17 O Sapientia = Oh Wisdom

18 O Adonai = Oh Lord of Ancient Israel

19 O Radix Jesse = Oh Flower of Jesse

20 O Clavis David = Oh Key of David

21 O Oriens = Oh Radient Dawn

22 O Rex Gentium = Oh King of all Peoples

23 O Emmanuel = Oh God with Us

CODEThe O Antiphon DECodeD

28 | December 2015

December 17

O Wisdom O holy Word of God you govern all creation with your strong yet tender care Come and show your people the way to salvation

December 18

O Sacred Lord of ancient Israel who showed yourself to Moses in the burning bush who gave him the holy law on Sinai mountain come stretch out your mighty hand to set us free

December 19

O Flower of Jessersquos stem you have been raised up as a sign for all peoples kings stand silent in your presence the nations bow down in worship before you Come let nothing keep you from coming to our aid

December 20

O Key of David and sceptre of the house of Israel you open and no one can shut you shut and no one can open come and lead the prisoners from the prison house those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death

The O antiphons

O my goodness itrsquos christmas next week

For the seven days just before Christmas the Divine Office (daily prayer book of the Church) resounds with joyful praise known as the lsquoOrsquo Antiphons

For those of us who somehow manage to get almost to the end of Advent without having done any of the spiritual preparation we had planned - herersquos a way to make the last week lsquoOrsquo so sweet

O Flo

wer o

f Jess

ersquos stem come Let nothing keep you from helping us

2015 December | 29

Older children may find intriguing the fact that there is a code in the Churchrsquos lsquoOrsquo Antiphons the short phrases said during Evening Prayer of the Church in the last week before Christmas

Craft O Antiphon Download our printable CLICK HERE

December 21

O Radiant Dawn splendor of eternal light sun of justice come shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death

December 22

O King of all the nations the only joy of every human heart O Keystone of the mighty arch of man come and save the creature you fashioned from the dust

December 23

O Emmanuel king and lawgiver desire of the nations Saviour of all people come and set us free Lord our God

(Taken from divineofficeorg)

Based on the prophecies of Isaiah each antiphon is a name given to Christ

17 O Sapientia = Oh Wisdom

18 O Adonai = Oh Lord of Ancient Israel

19 O Radix Jesse = Oh Flower of Jesse

20 O Clavis David = Oh Key of David

21 O Oriens = Oh Radient Dawn

22 O Rex Gentium = Oh King of all Peoples

23 O Emmanuel = Oh God with Us

CODEThe O Antiphon DECodeD

O Flo

wer o

f Jess

ersquos stem come Let nothing keep you from helping us

2015 December | 29

Older children may find intriguing the fact that there is a code in the Churchrsquos lsquoOrsquo Antiphons the short phrases said during Evening Prayer of the Church in the last week before Christmas

Craft O Antiphon Download our printable CLICK HERE

December 21

O Radiant Dawn splendor of eternal light sun of justice come shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death

December 22

O King of all the nations the only joy of every human heart O Keystone of the mighty arch of man come and save the creature you fashioned from the dust

December 23

O Emmanuel king and lawgiver desire of the nations Saviour of all people come and set us free Lord our God

(Taken from divineofficeorg)

Based on the prophecies of Isaiah each antiphon is a name given to Christ

17 O Sapientia = Oh Wisdom

18 O Adonai = Oh Lord of Ancient Israel

19 O Radix Jesse = Oh Flower of Jesse

20 O Clavis David = Oh Key of David

21 O Oriens = Oh Radient Dawn

22 O Rex Gentium = Oh King of all Peoples

23 O Emmanuel = Oh God with Us

CODEThe O Antiphon DECodeD

30 | December 2015

leMaterials

bull O Antiphon Bauble template (download below)

bull Colouring pencils pens glitter sequins etc

bull String or ribbon for hanging

bull Hole punch

bull Scissors

CRAFT O Antiphon BaublePrint out the template and decorate the baubles cut them out punch a hole in the top and hang them on the Christmas tree or place them in your prayer or sacred space

CLICK HERE

O Antiphon Bauble

2015 December | 31

O Antiphon Prayer Service Beginning on December 17 take the O Antiphon Bauble for that day and place it in the sacred space

Light a candle amp make the Sign of the Cross

Leader Lord Jesus help us to prepare our hearts for your coming You are our heavenly Fatherrsquos best gift to us Fill us with your Holy Spirit so we may celebrate your birthday with love and joy

All AmenSelect a child or another adult to read the prayer on the bauble and hang it onto the Christmas tree or a garland

Pray one Our Father Hail Mary and Glory Be

Leader Mary Queen of Heaven we thank you for saying lsquoyesrsquo to being the mother of JesusMake the Sign of the Cross

32 | December 2015

We wish you a

Blessed Advent

Merry Christmastide

and a

Happy New Year

For more ideas and inspiration visit wwwCathFamilyorg

2015 December | 33

PRAYER

St Nic Candy Cane BlessingHave you ever noticed that candy canes kind of look like Bishoprsquos Crosiers This little family prayer ritual is a perfect way to celebrate St Nicholasrsquo feast day on the 6th of December

CLICK HERE

INSPIRATION

Christmas ConsumersCatholic families the world over have creatively approached their Christmas traditions to help raise their children in the true spirit of the event

CLICK HERE

CRAFT

Gingerbread NativityGive the Christmas tradition of a gingerbread house a more spiritual twist by making a ginger bread nativity instead

CLICK HERE

Advent amp Christmastide

32 | December 2015

We wish you a

Blessed Advent

Merry Christmastide

and a

Happy New Year

For more ideas and inspiration visit wwwCathFamilyorg

2015 December | 33

PRAYER

St Nic Candy Cane BlessingHave you ever noticed that candy canes kind of look like Bishoprsquos Crosiers This little family prayer ritual is a perfect way to celebrate St Nicholasrsquo feast day on the 6th of December

CLICK HERE

INSPIRATION

Christmas ConsumersCatholic families the world over have creatively approached their Christmas traditions to help raise their children in the true spirit of the event

CLICK HERE

CRAFT

Gingerbread NativityGive the Christmas tradition of a gingerbread house a more spiritual twist by making a ginger bread nativity instead

CLICK HERE

Advent amp Christmastide

For more ideas and inspiration visit wwwCathFamilyorg

2015 December | 33

PRAYER

St Nic Candy Cane BlessingHave you ever noticed that candy canes kind of look like Bishoprsquos Crosiers This little family prayer ritual is a perfect way to celebrate St Nicholasrsquo feast day on the 6th of December

CLICK HERE

INSPIRATION

Christmas ConsumersCatholic families the world over have creatively approached their Christmas traditions to help raise their children in the true spirit of the event

CLICK HERE

CRAFT

Gingerbread NativityGive the Christmas tradition of a gingerbread house a more spiritual twist by making a ginger bread nativity instead

CLICK HERE

Advent amp Christmastide