December can be a tough time for liturgical sorts. Like embarassed house guests caught snooping through the master suite, we slink around corners and head for the shadows, clutching our candles and garlands, listening to the silence ripple as we wait for the Great “O Antiphons” to begin, wondering, “Am I the only one here?”
“Here” is Advent. Designated by the Christian Church as a time of preparation before the Feast of the Nativity, the four week season has its own traditions, prayers and disciplines. The Advent Wreath and Calendar mark the passing of the days and heighten anticipation. The shimmer of candlelight softens the night and the beauty of liturgical prayer and song gives rest to the soul – but they certainly aren’t what our culture has in mind when it speaks of “getting ready for Christmas”. (more…)
