Advent gradually developed into a season that lasted four weeks leading up to Christmas. The tradition as we know it today became popular in 1839 when the first Advent wreath appeared.

Advent calendars are popular, often containing chocolates or even luxury goods. But what are they and where did they originate? Here's how the faithful use them to prepare for Christmas.

Fr. Jeffrey Kirby of South Carolina reflects on 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17, and its call to "rejoice always" and "pray without ceasing" as it relates to the holy season of Advent.

Advent is coming up soon. Here's what to know about the holiday, including when Advent is observed, how it is celebrated and yearly traditions.

Advent begins this year on Sunday, Dec. 3. Most Catholics, even those who don’t often go to Mass, know that Advent involves a wreath with candles, possibly a “calendar” of hidden chocolates ...

The Advent wreath first appeared in Germany in 1839 when a Lutheran minister working at a mission for children created a wreath of the wheel of a cart, placing 20 small red candles and four large ...

The spirit of penance during Advent is not the same as that for Lent and some joy is permitted. Gaudete means "rejoice" and takes its name from the first word of the Introit for that Sunday.

What do advent wreaths signify? The circular shape of the wreath represents the eternal nature of God — his never-ending love, mercy, and faithfulness.

In a captivating homily delivered on the first Sunday of Advent, Rev. Fr. Joy Senanu Kwamla Ofori-Kumeni of the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Accra delved deep into the profound symbolism and historical ...

Advent gradually developed into a season that lasted four weeks leading up to Christmas. The tradition as we know it today became popular in 1839 when the first Advent wreath appeared.