Ask the Verger: What is Advent? | All Saints Episcopal Church

Advent, (from Latin adventus, “coming”), in the Christian church calendar, the period of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas and also of preparation for the Second Coming of Christ. In Western churches, Advent begins on the Sunday nearest to November 30 (St. Andrew’s Day) and is the beginning of the liturgical year. In many Eastern churches, the Nativity Fast is a similar period of penance and preparation that occurs during the 40 days before Christmas. The date when the season was first observed is uncertain. Bishop Perpetuus of Tours (461–490) established a fast before Christmas that began on November 11 (St. Martin’s Day), and the Council of Tours (567) mentioned an Advent season.

The liturgical meaning of the Advent season referred to the dual “coming” of Jesus—then Roman Catholicism the traditional liturgical colour for Advent is violet; many Protestant denominations have adopted blue or purple. The third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday, is commonly marked by the use of rose-coloured vestments and candles.

Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopedia (2021, May 9). Advent. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Advent

Welcome to All Saints! We are an inclusive, open-minded, open-hearted community, following Jesus in the Way of Love. We are so glad you are here. We are committed to love in action through the Woodstock Pantry, Hot Meals, Hygiene, Clothing Closet, Mustard Seed Thrift Store and Social Justice & Advocacy.

The Rev. Andria Skornik, Rector

The purpose of All Saints Church is to celebrate God’s love, to seek and to serve Christ in all persons, and to go forth into the world rejoicing in the power of the Spirit. Your presence is a blessing regardless of your background, sexual orientation, gender identity, race or ethnicity, age or family structure, abilities or limitations or wherever you are in life’s journey.

All Saints Episcopal Church is a Believe Out Loud Congregation. Click here this link for more information.

Our 8:00 A.M. Holy Communion, Rite 1 Service, held in the Chapel, is our most traditional service. All are welcome. Our 10:15 A.M. Holy Communion, Rite II Service, held in the Sanctuary, includes a Sermon, Readings, and Hymns. You can participate In-Person or in the Live Premiere on our Facebook page or watch on our website. The current bulletin and service can always be found in the Online Worship section of our website. All are welcome.

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