Advent

Advent Begins History

Advent is a significant season in the Christian liturgical calendar, observed in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Its primary purpose is to prepare believers for the birth of Jesus Christ and his Second Coming, signifying a time of reflection and anticipation for Christians worldwide. A combination of prayer, fasting, and symbolic rituals marks key aspects of this season.

The observance of Advent dates back to the 4th and 5th centuries, though it initially focused on preparing new believers for baptism. In contemporary New Zealand, the multicultural and multi-denominational society is reflected in the diversity of Christian communities and congregations participating in Advent activities. A unique aspect of the New Zealand Advent experience is incorporating Māori culture and language in church services and local flora, such as pohutukawa, to adorn churches and homes.

In line with global Advent traditions, New Zealanders attend special church services, sing Advent hymns, light candles on the Advent wreath, and participate in charitable giving and acts of kindness. Throughout the season, the lighting of each candle represents different themes, such as hope, peace, joy, and love. Christian families often partake in nightly readings from biblical texts that recount the story of Jesus' birth. Advent in New Zealand usually commences on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and concludes on Christmas Eve, aligning with the global Christian calendar.

Advent facts

• Each Sunday in Advent has a particular theme the first week represents hope, associated with Christ's coming. The second and third Sundays, which feature the stories about John the Baptist, represent hope and joy. The fourth Sunday, which covers the events that led up to the birth of Jesus, represents love.
• Many churches light a candle on an advent wreath each Sunday to represent each theme. The wreath is either suspended from the ceiling or sits on a table. It is made of evergreen branches and holds four candles - three purple for the first, second and third week of Advent and a pink one for third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. A white Christ candle is placed in the center and will be lit on Christmas.
• A common activity for children is to make Christmas ornaments. Many church Christmas trees are decorated with these ornaments that represent symbols in Christianity, like doves and fish.
• As part of Advent traditions, children in New Zealand often participate in nativity plays at school and church, acting out the story of Jesus' birth. These plays serve to teach children the true meaning of Christmas and usually involve handmade costumes and props.
• Many New Zealanders observe Advent by lighting an Advent wreath or attending church services. The Advent wreath consists of four candles, with a new one being lit on each of the four Sundays leading up to Christmas. Each candle symbolizes hope, peace, joy, and love.

In the News and Trending in NZ for Advent

Top things to do in NZ for Start of Advent

• Decorate your home with evergreens or go to a 'Hanging of the Greens' church service. Church members decorate the church in preparation for Christmas.
• Hang up an advent calendar. Many of these decorative pieces have little doors that open and reveal holiday images or have pockets with small items in them that reflect the season. They are especially popular with children who enjoy opening the little doors to reveal chocolates.
• Set up a nativity scene at home or visit a local church or community that has a live or static nativity display. This can help reflect on the story of Jesus' birth and the anticipation of his coming during Advent.
• Embrace the Advent spirit by engaging in acts of kindness and generosity. This could involve volunteering at local charities, donating food or gifts to those in need, or reaching out to friends and neighbors to spread joy and love during this season.