Advent Prayers, Liturgies, Readings, Poems and Devotions

The Christian liturgical season of Advent is often celebrated with prayers, readings and devotions. Many of the prayers and poems incorporate Biblical stories and images, and most address the feelings of hope and anticipation surrounding the coming birth of Jesus. Special prayers and devotions are often designated for each of the four Sundays of Advent. These prayers are often heard during Church services in the weeks leading up to Christmas, but they can also be said at home, in the company of friends and family members.

This page contains links to several prayers, liturgies, readings, poems and devotions appropriate for the Advent season.

The Advent wreath is a traditional symbol of the spiritual holiday. Many Advent wreaths are made of various types of greenery and adorned with four candles, symbolizing each of the Sundays leading up to Christmas. When an Advent wreath's first candle is lit, it is traditional in many homes to say a prayer and bless the wreath. Some families will ask a parish priest to bless the wreath as well. Advent wreath blessings and prayers often incorporate hopes that God will use the wreath and its symbolism to help people prepare for the coming of Christ.http://www.churchyear.net/adventwreath.html

• Like foolish folk of old I would not be,
• Who had no room that night for Him and thee.
• See, Mother Mary, here within my heart
• I've made a little shrine for Him apart;
• Swept it of sin, and cleansed it with all care;
• Warmed it with love and scented it with prayer.
• So, Mother, when the Christmas anthems start,
• Please let me hold your baby--in my heart.—Sr. Maryanna, O.P.University of Dayton: Advent Prayer

Advent (A Poem based on Rev. 22:20)

• Do you hear me when your friend turns to you
• To ask forgiveness and trust?
• Do I not forgive you always?
• Do I not give you a merciful ear?
• I am not coming soon I am here.
• In this season I was born unto you
• Fulfilling the promise of God’s care.
• Look for me, listen to me…
• I am not coming soon I am here. http://www.catholicplanet.com/poems/smaw2.htm