Prepare the way for Emmanuel!

A voice is crying in the wilderness, “ready the way of the Lord!” Then we arrive at the end of the path and opens a new gate of a liturgical year because the advent has started. Now, it is a wonderful time to walk in prayer as Christ enters and meets us in this world.

Catholic Church observes advent as a time of waiting and preparation for the nativity of Jesus Christ as well as his return for the second coming. Advent is derived from the Latin word adventus which means coming.

The season begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. The Sundays of advent have different themes which coincide with its distinctive colors of candles in the advent wreath. It is an evergreen wreath with four candles which symbolizes the passage of the four weeks of the season.

A violet candle is lit on the first Sunday of advent which gives the meaning of hope and so is the second Sunday which brings the message of peace. The third Sunday or Gaudete Sunday deals with the Christian joy which the pink candle symbolizes. Another violet candle is lighted on the last Sunday of advent which brings the essence of love.

The Church prepares the path for the coming of the Messiah through decorating the grounds of the churches such as putting some stars and decorative lights and preparing the “belen” and advent wreath. However, these are only external preparations.

Auxillary Bishop, Most. Rev. George B. Rimando, D.D. has said that the most important preparation of the Church is to let the people understand the meaning of advent through prayer. There is also that particular feeling of loving the presence of God and the familiarity of the Gospel which are read in successive four Sundays.

Advent serves as the epitome of the anticipation for Christ’s coming. As Catholics who are waiting for the Emmanuel, we should show it through being vigilant both in words and actions towards our fellow brothers and sisters. (Christine Joy L. Rodriguez)