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WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28988 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2022-11-16 18:28:12 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-11-16 18:28:12 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Table of Contents</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Intro</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#sirius-xm">Christmas Music on Sirius XM</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#spotify">Traditional Christmas Songs on Spotify</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#hallow">Hallow’s Advent and Christmas Music</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#youtube">Religious Christmas Music on YouTube</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#radio">Christmas Music on the Traditional Radio</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#songs">List of Most Popular Classic Christmas Songs</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#church-hymns">Catholic Church Hymns for Christmas</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We all have a favorite Christmas song (or two.) </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Often, it's a song we remember from our childhood, regardless of whether we first heard it in church, on the radio, or elsewhere.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In 2023, many Christmas songs celebrate the holiday season at surface level, glossing over the religious significance of the day and season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Plenty of songs embrace the meaning of Christmas. Hallow breaks down where to find traditional Christmas music, where to find it and which hymns you're likely to hear at Church this year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="sirius-xm">Traditional Christmas Music on Sirius XM</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">On satellite radio available across the country, there are several options for Christmas music, including some channels dedicated explicitly to traditional holiday tunes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Sirius XM Hallmark Channel 105, the Hallmark Channel, will play many familiar religious Christmas hits. Channel 71, Traditional Holiday Music, also broadcasts some classics.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you listen to Sirius XM online, there is a bounty of other channels to choose from, including ones dedicated to specific genres of Christmas music, such as Christmas rock and Christmas jazz.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Christmas music on Sirius begins in November and usually ends on December 26 or 27. Sirius then offers a music channel dedicated to New Year’s celebrations before reverting to the standard station lineup after January 1.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Classic Christmas Music on Spotify</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Spotify offers <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/6GShZQsny064U5fjirfiWg">plenty</a> of <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1E4tUo92vj2plB">playlists</a> customized toward religious holiday music. Other music services also have playlists and channels geared toward Christian Christmas music:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://www.last.fm/tag/christian+christmas/tracks">Last.FM</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://www.pandora.com/artist/christian-faith-singers-and-orchestra-holiday/christmas-hymns-and-carols/AL64bkJ79l2lgk9">Pandora</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/traditional-christmas-classics/1438805695">Apple TV</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://music.amazon.com/playlists/B0771T5SFW">Amazon Music</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Keep in mind that not all traditional Christmas music is overtly religious, however. Classics like “Silver Bells” by Bing Crosby have been mainstays for decades but don’t necessarily contain many religious motifs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="hallow">Advent and Christmas Music on Hallow</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow is excited to partner with new musicians in 2024 to bring to the Hallow app more rich, religious music for your Advent and Christmas seasons.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Listen to beautiful songs from Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles, Graduale Project and O'Neill Brothers. The music can aid your prayer life or serve as peaceful background music in your house, helping to provide an element of tranquility to a busy season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The array of Christmas music available in the Hallow app this year includes:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Gwen Stefani</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Lauren Daigle</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Matt Maher</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Ben Rector</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Source and Summit</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Ian Mulder</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Hallow Lofi</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Benedictines of Mary - Choral Religious Music</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Graduale Project - Chant</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>O'Neill Brothers - Solo Guitar</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Keys of Peace - Solo Piano</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Voces8 - Choral A Capella Music</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Sean Beeson - Instrumental Music</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Kat Hammock - Piano and Vocals</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Rebekah Wu - Chant</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>JJ Wright - Choral Chant</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Porter's Gate - Contemporary Worship</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Vigil Project - Contemporary Worship</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/traditionalchristmasmusic">Play Christmas Music on Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="youtube">Traditional Christmas Songs and Hymns on YouTube</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Plenty of channels on YouTube offer all different types of Catholic hymns. There are so many options that it can feel a bit overwhelming! In addition to every traditional song you can imagine, YouTube also has children’s Christmas music, which is a little more challenging to find elsewhere.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Some channels will compile multiple songs in a single video. Some videos are as long <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXfWUNl1PbM">as 10 hours</a>–nearly a half-day on non-stop Christmas tunes! These longer videos are nice for playing in the background throughout the day, so you don’t have to worry about finding new videos.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Keep in mind that YouTube will automatically pause after a certain amount of time, so you may need to manually restart the songs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Also, realize that many of these YouTube channels are monetized through advertisements. You might go from hearing Frank Sinatra’s soothing rendition of “Silent Night” to a 30-second high-energy ad for an exercise program immediately after. Total mood shift.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="radio">Where to Find Christmas Music on Traditional Radio&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Most cities have at least one station that switches over to full-time Christmas music. Notable exceptions include San Diego. Some cities, like Cincinnati, have more than one station playing Christmas music full-time (Star 93.3 and Warm 98.)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:table {"className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><tbody><tr><td><strong>City</strong></td><td><strong>Station</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Atlanta</td><td>The Fish 104 7</td></tr><tr><td>Baltimore</td><td>WLIF 101 9</td></tr><tr><td>Boston</td><td>Magic 106.7</td></tr><tr><td>Charlotte</td><td>WKQZ 104 7</td></tr><tr><td>Chicago</td><td>93.9 Lite FM</td></tr><tr><td>Cincinnati</td><td>Star 93.3</td></tr><tr><td>Cleveland</td><td>Majic 105.7</td></tr><tr><td>Dallas</td><td>KLTY 94 9</td></tr><tr><td>Denver</td><td>KOSI 101.1</td></tr><tr><td>Detroit</td><td>WNIC 100 3</td></tr><tr><td>Houston</td><td>SUNNY 99.1</td></tr><tr><td>Las Vegas</td><td>Sunny 106 5</td></tr><tr><td>Los Angeles</td><td>KOST 103.5</td></tr><tr><td>Miami 101.5</td><td>Lite FM 101 5</td></tr><tr><td>Milwaukee</td><td>WLDB 93.3</td></tr><tr><td>Minneapolis/St. Paul</td><td>KOOL/108</td></tr><tr><td>Nashville</td><td>Mix 92.9</td></tr><tr><td>New York City</td><td>106.7 Lite FM</td></tr><tr><td>Orlando</td><td>Magic 107 7</td></tr><tr><td>Philadelphia</td><td>WBEB 101 1</td></tr><tr><td>Phoenix</td><td>KEZ 99.9</td></tr><tr><td>Pittsburgh</td><td>WSH 99.7</td></tr><tr><td>Portland</td><td>K 103.3</td></tr><tr><td>Sacramento</td><td>Mix 96.1</td></tr><tr><td>San Antonio</td><td>Q 101.9</td></tr><tr><td>San Francisco/Bay Area</td><td>KOIT 96 5</td></tr><tr><td>Seattle</td><td>Warm 106.9</td></tr><tr><td>St. Louis</td><td>KZEK. 102.5</td></tr><tr><td>Tampa</td><td>Mix 100.7</td></tr><tr><td>Washington, D.C.</td><td>FM, 97. 1</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Terrestrial radio stations around the country that play Christmas music</em></figcaption></figure> <!-- /wp:table --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The cities listed above normally make the switch first. Other stations in these markets may play Christmas music exclusively closer to December 25 or add more Christmas songs to their mix closer to December 25.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You will hear some traditional and religious Christmas songs on these stations, but there will be no shortage of secular Christmas hits, like Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">K-Love Radio, a contemporary Christian radio network that operates in dozens of markets around the country, also has Christmas music in many cities.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="songs">List of Traditional Christmas Songs</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Most songs that we recognize today as traditional Christmas songs were first written and performed in the 1800s.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“Silent Night,” for example, <a href="https://www.wrti.org/arts-desk/2020-12-19/the-story-behind-the-beloved-christmas-carol-silent-night">traces its origins back to Austria in 1816</a>, when a young Roman Catholic priest named Joseph Mohr was inspired by a calm, bright night and penned the song.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Here are some traditional Christmas songs that remain popular today:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Silent Night</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Joy to the World</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Hark! The Herald Angels Sing</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Angels We Have Heard on High&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>O Little Town of Bethlehem</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The First Noel</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>O Come, O Come Emmanuel</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>What Child Is This</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>O Come All Ye Faithful</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Instrumental versions of many of these songs are also available on YouTube and other music sites.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Although many versions of the songs we know and love are decades old, traditional or religious Christmas music doesn’t always have to sound “old.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Some current artists blend contemporary, original Christmas music with fresh takes on some of the classics.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The group Pentatonix has produced versions of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mj7Pr42rliI">“O Come All Ye Faithful”</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ku7ohU1IGls">“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”</a> while also creating original songs such as <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFjdfjrtf1Q">“What Christmas Means to Me”</a>. Michael Bublé and Lauren Daigle have also released modern takes on old-school Christmas hits.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="church-hymns">Christmas Church Hymns</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Whether you’re attending Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve or a liturgy on Christmas Day, you’re bound to hear familiar hymns at Catholic liturgies around the world.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Many churches will welcome people before Mass begins and invite people to sing (or just listen and enjoy) Christmas hymns from the choir.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When the service begins, here’s a breakdown of some songs you may hear. Although songs are different at every parish, these are popular year after year:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Opening hymn</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>O Come all Ye Faith (sometimes some verses sung in Latin)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Offertory hymn</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Angels We Have Heard on High</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Silent Night</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Aye Carol</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Communion hymn</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The First Noel</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>O Holy Night</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Recessional hymn&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Joy to the World&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Go Tell It on a Mountain</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/traditionalchristmasmusic">Explore Religious Christmas Music on Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="hallow">More Christmas and Advent Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/the-schedule-of-advent-when-does-advent-start/">Advent Schedule</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-prayers-catholic-meditations/">Advent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-prayer-catholic-blessings/">Christmas Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/">Christmas Gift Guide</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-eve-mass/">Christmas Eve Mass Guide</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-st-andrew-christmas-novena/">St. Andrew Christmas Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/scripture/bible-verses-for-music/">Bible Verses for Music</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> [post_title] => Christmas Music for 2024: Guide to Religious/Traditional Christmas Music and Church Hymns [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => christmas-music-traditional-religious [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-12-16 17:05:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-12-16 17:05:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=28988 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28660 [post_author] => 24 [post_date] => 2022-11-08 16:47:08 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-11-08 16:47:08 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In 2024, prepare your heart for Christmas and rediscover the wonder of Christ’s coming into this world and into our hearts by joining Advent Pray25.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The theme of this year's challenge is "For God So Loved the World," from John 3:16.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” ~ John 3:16</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We’ll dive deep into the real meaning behind this verse and how it brings to life so beautifully the depth of God’s love for us – a love so heartbreakingly deep that He gives us, at Christmas, His only Son, knowing the life He was leading Him to.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":71389,"sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"none","align":"center","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Hallow-Advent-2024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-71389"/></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This Advent, we’ll be joined by…</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Jonathan Roumie</strong>, who portrays Jesus in <em>The Chosen</em>, will lead us in prayer and powerful reflection on <em>A Severe Mercy</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Bear Grylls</strong>, British adventurer and survivalist from <em>Man vs. Wild</em>, will read passages from the book <em>A Severe Mercy, </em>a beautiful, true story following Sheldon Vanauken and his wife, Davy, as they explore and convert to Christianity with the help of their friend C.S. Lewis</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Sr. Agnus Dei, SV,</strong> will lead us in a reflection on God’s everlasting and healing love and pray the Litany of Let Love with us each week</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Biblical scholar <strong>Jeff Cavins </strong>and<strong> Francis Chan</strong>, author of <em>Crazy Love</em>, will share incredible reflections on Scripture</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Catholic Actor <strong>Kevin James</strong> will sit down with Jonathan Roumie and <strong>Fr. Chrysostom Baer</strong> to discuss <em>Divine Intimacy, </em>an incredible book of Carmelite meditations<em>, </em>to bring this spiritual classic to life every Sunday</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Fr. David Santos</strong> and more special guests will share real-life testimonies of God’s love in their lives</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can also join <strong>Gwen Stefani</strong>, <strong>Lauren Daigle</strong>, <strong>Matt Maher</strong>, and <strong>Sarah Kroger</strong> in the Advent Pray25 challenge!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Each Saturday this Advent, we’ll encounter God’s love through music, starting with an original Christmas song by Gwen Stefani, three-time Grammy Award winner and coach on The Voice. It’s a beautiful song centered around God’s love, perfect to cap off our first week of Advent together.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We’ll also be joined by two-time Grammy Award-winning artist and the biggest Christian Music artist in the world, the incredible Lauren Daigle, who will share both a powerful song and her testimony of encountering God’s love</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The waitlist is now open. Make the courageous decision to allow God into your life and discover a love that satisfies more than anything this world has to offer</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Join Pray25 and pray with Hallow this Advent!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/pray25">Join the Advent Pray25 Prayer Challenge</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>More Advent Resources</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-prayers-catholic-meditations/">Advent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/the-schedule-of-advent-when-does-advent-start/">Schedule of Advent</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-candles-and-advent-wreaths/">Advent Wreaths and Candles</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-calendars/">Advent Calendars </a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-activities-customs-traditions/">Advent Traditions and Activities</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="share" class=""><strong>Share Pray25 and Spread the Word!</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":71506,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Hallow-Pray25-Quotes-Wide-2-1024x682.png" alt="" class="wp-image-71506"/></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Pray25 is one our most popular challenges of the year, and we're blessed to see many people share on social media about joining the challenge. We made it easy this year to spread the word, with easy-to-download images and illustrations perfect for social sharing.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/a8y84aei3znc6132od19k/ADdQNp8jcZz2lxFU6BQHvt8?rlkey=ovkj9mz1eg0xqmb9bh9qvlhuw&amp;e=1&amp;st=e6en7fft&amp;dl=0">Browse Images to Share</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> [post_title] => Hallow's Advent Pray25 Prayer Challenge: For God So Loved the World [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => pray25 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-11-21 19:50:04 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-11-21 19:50:04 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=28660 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 28352 [post_author] => 24 [post_date] => 2022-11-04 17:48:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-11-04 17:48:27 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The gift-giving tradition goes back to the Nativity, a few days after Christ was born. The three wise men followed the bright Star of Bethlehem to meet baby Jesus in Bethlehem. Known as King Balthasar (from Arabia), King Melchior (from Persia), and King Gaspar (from India), they brought Jesus gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh&nbsp;and recognized Him as the Son of God. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em><strong>“On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary, his mother; and they knelt and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”</strong></em> (Matthew 2:11)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Today, we give gifts to our loved ones in imitation of the wise men, showing our love and gratitude for others. As you discern gift-giving this season, remember that praying for someone is always a beautiful and thoughtful gift we can give to others. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:group {"className":""} --> <div class="wp-block-group"><!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="#for-everyone">For everyone</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --> <!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="#for-the-home">For the home</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --> <!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="#for-families">For families</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --> <!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="#Rosaries">Rosaries</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --> <!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="#for-her">For her</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --> <!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="#for-him">For him</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --> <!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="#for-kids">For kids</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --> <!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="#for-readers">For readers</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --> <!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="#in-lieu">In lieu</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --></div> <!-- /wp:group --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="for-everyone">Gifts for everyone</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":28765,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28765","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":34} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:34% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://hallow.com/portal/#/gift"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/GiftCard_background-1024x819.png" alt="hallow app gift card" class="wp-image-28765 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Gift of Prayer: Hallow</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Content…","className":""} --> <p class="">With 10,000+ prayers, meditations, and learning courses in the app for all ages, Hallow has something for everyone. Consider giving Hallow to your friends and family as an early gift to support them in prayer this Advent by purchasing a 3-month or one-year (virtual) <a href="https://hallow.com/portal/#/gift">Hallow gift card</a>!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":28434,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28434","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":40} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 40%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-chosen-seasons-1-4-on-dvd">The Chosen: Seasons 1-4 on DVD</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Content…","className":""} --> <p class="">The Chosen is the first-ever multi-season series about the life of Christ. At Hallow, we are blessed to partner with Jonathan Roumie, who plays Jesus in The Chosen. <a href="https://new.thechosen.tv/collections/discs">Seasons 1-4 of The Chosen on DVD</a> are great gifts for anyone seeking to learn more about Jesus, ahead of the release of Season 5 in 2025.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://thechosengifts.com/collections/best-sellers/products/seasons-one-two-dvd-bundle-1"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-04-at-2.06.57-PM-2-1016x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28434 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":28423,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28423","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"medium"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/catechism-of-the-catholic-church-ascension-edition"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-04-at-2.08.13-PM-2-373x500.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28423 size-medium"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Catechism from Ascension</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Check out Ascension’s edition of <em><a href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/catechism-of-the-catholic-church-ascension-edition">The Catechism of the Catholic Church</a></em> for the theologically curious friends and family in your life. This is a great companion for those planning to listen to <em>The Catechism In A Year</em>! In this podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz helps us live out our faith in daily life. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":28455,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28455","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bible from Word on Fire</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">There are two volumes of the <em><a href="https://bookstore.wordonfire.org/pages/bible-page">Word on Fire Bible</a></em>. The first volume illuminates the Gospels with commentary from Bishop Barron, the Church Fathers, and various saints, theologians, and scholars. The second volume illuminates Acts, Letters, and Revelation. Consider purchasing one of the volumes or both for a friend or family member this Advent season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://bookstore.wordonfire.org/pages/bible-page"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-04-at-2.42.56-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28455 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":28461,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28461","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://sockreligious.com/collections/adult-socks"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-04-at-2.52.53-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28461 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Apparel from Catholic Concepts</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">From Pope Francis to St. Thérèse of Lisieux to Our Lady of Guadalupe, <a href="https://sockreligious.com/collections/adult-socks">Sock Religious</a> of Catholic Concepts has the perfect pair of socks for everyone in your life from the littles to the grands! You can also check out their new <a href="https://statesoffaith.com/">States of Faith</a> line, featuring all 50 States, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico, outlined in the Rosary on t-shirts, sweatshirts, and more. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":28470,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28470","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Coffee from Religious Roast</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Elevate someone’s morning coffee this Advent with coffee inspired by the saints! For the adventurer in your life, you can buy the St. John Paul II medium roast, or the Our Lady of Carmel sweet caramel roast for a sweet friend! Check out all the “saintly coffee” <a href="https://www.littlewayofperfection.com/collections/saintly-coffee">Religious Roast</a> has to offer this Advent season!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.littlewayofperfection.com/collections/saintly-coffee"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-04-at-3.00.31-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28470 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":28475,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28475","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://mysaintmyhero.com/collections/best-sellers/products/benedictine-blessing-bracelet-mixed"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-04-at-3.11.13-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28475 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Benedictine Bracelet from My Saint My Hero</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can never go wrong with the <a href="https://mysaintmyhero.com/collections/blessing-bracelets/products/benedictine-blessing-bracelet-silver">Classic Benedictine Bracelet</a> from My Saint My Hero! These blessing bracelets come in a wide variety of colors and feature the icon of St. Benedict and the Benedictine cross, a symbol of divine protection. This is a great gift symbolizing God’s love and protection. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":28484,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28484","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">90-Day Planner from Monk Manual</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Monk Manual <a href="https://monkmanual.com/products/monk-manual?view=2022-MM-Look-Inside">90-Day Planner</a> is a “daily system designed for peaceful being and purposeful doing” inspired by the daily life of monks. This is a great gift for anyone, especially for those going through a life transition or seeking to live intentionally.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://monkmanual.com/products/monk-manual?view=2022-MM-Look-Inside"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-04-at-3.17.55-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28484 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":28490,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28490","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.reformwellness.co/shop/p/daily-formation-notepad"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-04-at-3.19.32-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28490 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Daily Formation Notepad from Reform Wellness</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Reform Wellness seeks to integrate both the body and soul when it comes to health. This <a href="https://www.reformwellness.co/shop/p/daily-formation-notepad">Daily Formation Notepad</a> is a great gift for someone in your life who enjoys the health &amp; wellness space and looks to grow in daily (w)holiness. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":28735,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28735","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Support Small Catholic Businesses on Etsy</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Consider supporting small Catholic shops and artists on Etsy this <a href="https://hallow.com/advent/">Advent</a> and Christmas! From mugs to jewelry to stickers to Christmas cards, you'll find something beautiful for everyone on your list. Among many others, check out <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/GratiaDesignCoShop">Gratia Design Co.</a> (Christmas card pictured), <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/MourningDoveCo">Mourning Dove Co.</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/thestumpofjesse">Stump of Jesse</a>, and the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheLittleRoseShop">Little Rose Shop</a>!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/1090361702/christ-the-savior-is-born-christmas-card"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-08-at-12.49.17-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28735 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":44288,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/11-7-23-catholic-tees/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/1090361702/christ-the-savior-is-born-christmas-card"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/11.7.23-catholic-tees.png" alt="" class="wp-image-44288 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Catholic tee shirts </h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Who doesn't love a comfy t-shirt? Grab a stylish tee with a Catholic message from <a href="https://totallycatholictees.com/">Totally Catholic Tees</a>, which has been in business for more than 30 years and remains dedicated to spreading the Gospel through apparel.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":44702,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/11-8-23-hallow-rosary/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">A Hallow x Ghirelli Rosary</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Artwork by the talented Hallow design team showcases St. Teresa of Avila in the centerpiece of <a href="https://ghirelli.com/products/hallow-rosary">this rosary</a> from Ghirelli®️ in partnership with Hallow. The crucifix is inspired by Matthew 11:28 and is finished in antique silver. It's a beautiful prayer companion!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://ghirelli.com/products/hallow-rosary"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/11.8.23-hallow-rosary.png" alt="" class="wp-image-44702 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":71824,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/nativity-hires-8x10/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://shop.therosaryteam.org/"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Nativity-HiRes-8X10.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-71824 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stunning-prints-from-the-rosary-team">Stunning prints from The Rosary Team</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://shop.therosaryteam.org/">The Rosary Team</a> is an organization dedicated to praying with seniors in nursing homes. The group has hundreds of volunteers across 200 nursing facilities, leading weekly rosaries. This Advent, it's offering stunning prints of The Nativity, the Annunciation and the Visitation for sale, for different sizes, materials and price points.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":73081,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/12-17-24-bishop-sheen/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bishop-sheen-rosaries">Bishop Sheen Rosaries</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Take your rosary wherever you go with this durable, beautiful <a href="https://www.sheenrosaries.com/products/hallow-rosary">Bishop Sheen Rosary</a>, in partnership with Hallow. The foundation of the rosary is made from paracord. The rosary also features a Benedictine cross and silver-plated Our Father and Hail Mary beads.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.sheenrosaries.com/products/hallow-rosary"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/12.17.24-bishop-sheen.png" alt="" class="wp-image-73081 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="for-the-home">Gifts for the home</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":28595,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28595","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://beaheart.com/collections/holiday/products/bundle-advent-wreath-candles-matches"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-07-at-8.24.06-AM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28595 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Advent Wreath &amp; Candles from Be A Heart </h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As an Advent or “early Christmas” gift, consider this beautiful <a href="https://beaheart.com/collections/holiday/products/bundle-advent-wreath-candles-matches">Advent Wreath, Candles &amp; Matches Bundle</a> from Be A Heart. This is a perfect, liturgically-minded gift for close friends and family members. It would look beautiful on a dining table or entryway table for everyone to approach the Light this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":70831,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/11-13-24-saints-alive/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":27,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 27%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saints-alive-poster-prints">Saints Alive Poster Prints</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Saints Alive brings to life some of the greatest heroes in our faith with engaging, highly-quality audio stories that kids love. The <a href="https://hallowapp.myshopify.com/collections/saints-alive-poster-prints">Hallow Merch shop now</a> features some of the stunning artwork for the saints profiled in Saints Alive episodes, on thick, matte canvas for just $15 each.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://hallowapp.myshopify.com/collections/saints-alive-poster-prints"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/11.13.24-saints-alive.png" alt="" class="wp-image-70831 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":28609,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28609","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.santaclaradesign.com/products/annunication-mary-and-gabriel-art-print-66216?_pos=28&amp;_sid=3d65698fd&amp;_ss=r"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-07-at-8.41.38-AM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28609 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Annunciation Print from Santa Clara Design</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This <a href="https://www.santaclaradesign.com/products/annunication-mary-and-gabriel-art-print-66216?_pos=28&amp;_sid=3d65698fd&amp;_ss=r">Annunciation Print</a> from Santa Clara Design is a thoughtful gift for anyone in your life. It reminds us of Mary’s fiat — her powerful “yes” to God when the Angel Gabriel came to her. Consider framing this beautiful print and giving it to a neighbor, friend, or family member this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":28602,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28602","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Jesse Tree Window Clings from Studio Senn</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In line with the theme of Advent <a href="https://hallow.com/pray25">Pray25</a>, we love these <a href="https://www.studiosenn.com/product-page/jesse-tree-window-clings-and-book">Jesse Tree Window Clings</a> that trace the coming of Jesus through time. The Jesse Tree begins on December 1st and concludes on Christmas Eve. This is a great gift for families with young children to help them understand the fulfillment of the prophecy of Isaiah!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.studiosenn.com/product-page/jesse-tree-window-clings-and-book"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-07-at-8.36.44-AM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28602 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":70354,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/timothy-schmalz-scultupres/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.sculpturebytps.com/miniature-sculptures/?orderby=popularity"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Timothy-Schmalz-Scultupres.png" alt="" class="wp-image-70354 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sculptures-from-timothy-schmalz">Sculptures from Timothy Schmalz</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Timothy Schmalz describes his sculptures as being "visual prayers," and that he seeks to create "art that has the power to convert." His <a href="https://www.sculpturebytps.com/miniature-sculptures/?orderby=popularity">miniature sculptures</a> include works depicting Jesus, Mary, St. Padre Pio and more.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":43696,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/meyermarket/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Home Decor from from Meyer Market Designs</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Popular Catholic Etsy shop <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/MeyerMarketDesigns">MeyerMarketDesigns</a> offers a wide range of Catholic items with beautiful Catholic imagery and messages. Their saints pillow is especially beautiful, but they also offer stuffed dolls, garden flags, ornaments, notepads and more. You'll be sure to find something for your home that can inspire your faith this holiday season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/MeyerMarketDesigns"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/meyermarket-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-43696 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":70370,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/11-6-24-kitchen-madonna-2/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.catholiccompany.com/kitchen-madonna-ivory-statue-i125268/"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/11.6.24-kitchen-madonna-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-70370 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kitchen-madonna-from-the-catholic-company">Kitchen Madonna from The Catholic Company</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This <a href="https://www.catholiccompany.com/kitchen-madonna-ivory-statue-i125268/">10-inch tall statue</a>, made of resin, is a great addition to the home and traditionally is displayed in the kitchen. It depicts Our Lady sweeping the home, a small gesture done with great love.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":28617,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28617","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Cooking with the Saints</em> Cookbook from Sophia Press</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <a href="https://www.sophiainstitute.com/products/item/cooking-with-the-saints"><em>Cooking with the Saints</em></a> cookbook from Sophia Press is such a fun gift for your friends and family who love to cook! This cookbook includes traditional dishes from the home countries and communities of saints, as well as special saint feast day cookie recipes. This is a gift that will keep on giving throughout the liturgical year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.sophiainstitute.com/products/item/cooking-with-the-saints"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-07-at-9.01.27-AM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28617 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":44298,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/11-7-23-stella-maris-candle/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://theologyofhome.com/collections/stella-maris-candles"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/11.7.23-stella-maris-candle.png" alt="" class="wp-image-44298 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Nativity Candle from Stella Maris &amp; Co.</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://theologyofhome.com/collections/stella-maris-candles">Stella Maris</a> (Latin for "Star of the Sea," a reference to Mary's title as Our Lady, Star of the Sea) produced, produced by Theology of Home, are wonderful set of candles, none more seasonally appropriate than the Nativity candle, which has been described as "Christmas in a jar" and offers a fragrant scent of fir, orange and vanilla. Pair it with a <a href="https://theologyofhome.com/products/theology-of-home-match-box">beautiful set of matches</a> for just $1 more.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":43706,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/lastsupper/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Wood Carvings of the Last Supper and more</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://blestart.com/">Blestart</a> offers immaculate wood carvings done by Christians living in the Holy Land, supporting a small population of people "who want to live in peace and support their families with a centuries-old trade and way of life." The finished products are showstopping pieces that will sanctify your home.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://blestart.com/"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/lastsupper.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-43706 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="for-families">Gifts for families</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":28639,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28639","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://catholiccardgame.com/products/the-catholic-card-game-base-deck"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-07-at-9.37.47-AM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28639 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Catholic Card Game</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://catholiccardgame.com/products/the-catholic-card-game-base-deck">The Catholic Card Game</a> is a prompt-and-answer style game with all questions related to the Catholic and its traditions. This is both a fun and educational gift for both families and adults. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":28644,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28644","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Holy Family Ornament from The Catholic Company</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This <a href="https://www.catholiccompany.com/lighted-holy-family-glass-ornament/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwqoibBhDUARIsAH2OpWg42Ze385KweTtHes1NGTxgDsmyxNQbvZucXDeDb6zehoFp15NA_QcaAjcyEALw_wcB">Holy Family Glass Ornament</a> is an affordable and thoughtful gift for families this Advent. While it makes for a great gift for neighbors or family friends, this ornament is a great gift for individuals as well!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://www.catholiccompany.com/lighted-holy-family-glass-ornament/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwqoibBhDUARIsAH2OpWg42Ze385KweTtHes1NGTxgDsmyxNQbvZucXDeDb6zehoFp15NA_QcaAjcyEALw_wcB"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-07-at-9.40.46-AM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28644 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":28649,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28649","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://catholicfamilycrate.com/collections/christmas-gifts/products/one-month-crate"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-11-07-at-9.45.59-AM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28649 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Membership to Catholic Family Crate</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://catholicfamilycrate.com/collections/christmas-gifts/products/one-month-crate">Catholic Family Crate</a> puts together new crates or “boxes” each month with crafts and other learning materials for families to pass on the faith and its traditions to kids. You can purchase a monthly or annual membership to Catholic Family Crate. This is a great gift for families with young kids.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":28654,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/?attachment_id=28654","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Hallow Family Plan</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Did you know that Hallow has a family plan? Consider upgrading your personal Hallow subscription so your family can pray together on the app (up to 6 members). Learn more about the <a href="https://hallow.com/family-plans/">Hallow Family Plan</a>!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://hallow.com/family-plans/"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/38_l-1024x611.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28654 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":43688,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/maryonthemantelset2/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://beaheart.com/products/mary-on-the-mantel-full-set"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MaryontheMantelSet2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-43688 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mary on the Mantel</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If your little ones are intrigued by Elf on the Shelf, they'll love <a href="https://beaheart.com/products/mary-on-the-mantel-full-set">Mary on the Mantel</a> from Be a Heart. Create a new Advent tradition and help your children prepare for the arrival of baby Jesus.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaPosition":"right","mediaId":44724,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/de/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/11-8-23-pajamas/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 28%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Family Pajamas</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Thanks to Holy Pals Pajamas, your whole squad can match with style PJs showcasing Christian themes. It's a fun way to help teach the faith to little ones, with designs inspired by both the Old and New Testaments.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://holypals.com/"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/11.8.23-pajamas.png" alt="" class="wp-image-44724 size-full"/></a></figure></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:media-text {"align":"wide","mediaId":70823,"mediaLink":"https://hallow.com/blog/the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas/galstickers/","linkDestination":"custom","mediaType":"image","mediaWidth":28,"mediaSizeSlug":"full"} --> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:28% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://saintsprouts.com/"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/GalStickers.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-70823 size-full"/></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"><!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saint-stickers-from-saintsprouts">Saint Stickers from SaintSprouts</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://saintsprouts.com/">SaintSprouts</a> makes adorable stickers and magents featuring a whole slew of saints. The company's mission is to "spread love and devotion." The collections feature male saints, female saints, and an entire Marian set. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></div></div> <!-- /wp:media-text --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Rosaries">Rosaries</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Rosaries are a great gift for friends and family of all ages, and there really are styles out there for everyone! Check out some of these beautiful Rosaries:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>House of Joppa</strong> <a href="https://www.houseofjoppa.com/products/olive-wood-rosary">Olive Wood Rosary</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>ChewsLife</strong> Silicon rosaries <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ChewsLifeShop">for little ones</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Catholic Woodworker</strong> <a href="https://catholicwoodworker.com/collections/designer-rosaries/products/95-paracord-pocket-rosary">Handmade Wooden Pocket Rosary</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>West Coast Catholic</strong> <a href="https://westcoastcatholic.co/collections/rosaries/products/wedding-at-cana-rosary?variant=40290074558664">Wedding at Cana Rosary</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>AromaRosary</strong> <a href="https://www.aromarosary.com/hallow">Hallow Rosary &amp; Oil Blend</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="for-her">Gifts for her</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For the <strong>organized</strong> woman, check out Blessed Is She’s <a href="https://blessedisshe.net/products/catholic-liturgical-planner">2024 Liturgical Calendar</a>, Be A Heart’s <a href="https://beaheart.com/collections/planner-calendar">2024 Liturgical Calendar</a>, and Simplicity &amp; Productivity Co's <a href="https://shop.simplicityandproductivity.com/products/the-purpose-planner">90-Day Life of Purpose planner</a>. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Gift the <strong>stylish</strong> woman the <a href="https://www.litanynyc.com/product-page/saint-bernadette-silk-scarf">St. Bernadette Silk Scarf</a> from Litany NYC. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For the woman whose <strong>jewelry</strong> is a reminder of her faith, consider the <a href="https://www.thelittlecatholic.com/products/mystical-rose-ring-vermeil?variant=39299128229958&amp;currency=USD&amp;utm_medium=product_sync&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_content=sag_organic&amp;utm_campaign=sag_organic&amp;utm_campaign=gs-2022-04-19&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=smart_campaign&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw--2aBhD5ARIsALiRlwBwc1pekJRuioW80_yZlqvvH-WK9_s9SozaH8Go597e0pU98KR7mAcaAjmBEALw_wcB">Mystical Rose Ring</a> from The Little Catholic, the <a href="https://chewslife.com/collections/rosary-bracelets/products/stella-maris-triple-stretch-wrap-rosary-bracelet-medium">Stella Maris Rosary Bracelet</a> from Chews Life, or the <a href="https://saintandstone.com/collections/necklaces/products/rays-of-light-necklace?variant=35092664221853">Clothed with the Sun Necklace</a> from Saint and Stone. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The woman always <strong>reading</strong> or interested in <strong>femininity &amp; faith</strong>; consider gifting her the <a href="https://www.femcatholic.com/join#">Reader’s or All Access Pass</a> to FemCatholic or the book <a href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/reveal-the-gift-living-the-feminine-genius"><em>Reveal the Gift</em></a> by Lisa Cotter (Ascension Press). </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="for-him">Gifts for him</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you’re looking to give a <strong>stylish</strong> gift this season, check out this <a href="https://www.litanynyc.com/product-page/st-raphael-pocket-square-pre-order">St. Raphael Pocket Square</a> for men from Litany NYC. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Offering “self-care products with a Catholic purpose,” <a href="https://gloryandshine.com/">Glory and Shine</a> makes lotions, soaps and lip balms, but might be most famous for their highly regarded beard balms.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For the men in your life who love the <strong>Rosary</strong>, check out this beautiful <a href="https://ruggedrosaries.com/collections/new-or-back-in-stock/products/elegant-wooden-rosary">Natural Wooden Rosary</a> from Rugged Rosaries and this sleek <a href="https://everydayprayerco.com/collections/the-rosary-card/products/black-wallet-rosary-card">Rosary Card</a> from Everyday Prayer Co. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For a man interested in <strong>spiritual growth</strong>, consider gifting him a subscription to <a href="https://exodus90.com/">Exodus 90</a>, a program and community for men ready to “live different.” </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can also consider the <strong>book</strong> <em><a href="https://www.catholiccompany.com/drinking-saints-sinners-guide-to-a-holy-happy-hour-i104644/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwqoibBhDUARIsAH2OpWjpaksw6xajZVueTOR1-Y6OhqMhzy16WfAtSJ9gj7N0mtFZpwOMgHAaAqEZEALw_wcB">Drinking with the Saints</a></em> from The Catholic Company and this <a href="https://catholicshop.com/st-benedict-medal-monastery-candle.html?gclid=Cj0KCQjwqoibBhDUARIsAH2OpWgxYPFadIUjVhR2WtCra-_cyhBitEtxMImWUSqBejBbmcdAU8j-a7AaAiMfEALw_wcB">St. Benedict Monastery Candle</a> from The Catholic Shop for men in your life!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If he loves <strong>coffee</strong> or tea, check out these inspiring <a href="https://annunciationdesigns.com/product/escriva-mug/">St. Josemaría Escrivá mugs</a> from Annunciation Designs. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="for-kids">Gifts for kids</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For the <strong>really littles</strong>, we love these <a href="https://chewslife.com/collections/silicone-baby-rosaries">Silicon Baby Rosaries</a> from Chews Life, the <a href="https://beaheart.com/collections/holiday/products/nativity-christmas-pajamas">Nativity Christmas pajamas</a> from Be A Heart, and the <a href="https://saintlyheart.com/index.php/product/saintly-heart-nativity-playset/">Nativity Playset</a> from Saintly Heart.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <a href="https://shininglightdolls.com/collections/dolls">Saint Dolls</a> from Shining Light Dolls are a great gift for <strong>toddlers</strong>. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Books from <a href="https://emilywilsonministries.com/my-book">Emily Wilson Ministries</a> are another great option. Stella the Brave, for children ages 4-8, is another great option.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For the <strong>older kids</strong>, check out this <a href="https://monkmanual.com/products/sprout-journal">Sprout Journal for Kids</a> from Monk Manual, the book <a href="https://paulinestore.com/brilliant-28-scientists-mathematicians-supersmart-people-qs1009522-201833.html"><em>Brilliant! 28 Catholic Scientists, Mathematicians, and Supersmart People</em></a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="for-readers">Gifts for readers</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For the <strong>book lovers</strong> and <strong>theology</strong> readers in your life, consider gifting:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://bookstore.wordonfire.org/products/flannery-oconnor-collection">The Flannery O’Connor Collection</a> (Word on Fire)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://www.wordonfire.org/pray/?gclid=CjwKCAjw8JKbBhBYEiwAs3sxNyjrCq6qaXdEAJ2fkwclhOhhrh3YYafWRiTtOUgzNSaOCTikLbijRxoCuPgQAvD_BwE">Liturgy of the Hours Subscription</a> (Word on Fire)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/introduction-to-the-devout-life?variant=43128690868416&amp;currency=USD&amp;utm_medium=product_sync&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_content=sag_organic&amp;utm_campaign=sag_organic&amp;utm_campaign=gs-2020-10-16&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=smart_campaign&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwqoibBhDUARIsAH2OpWgp4jK2DzrWXMPh7xf5y95KqGsZOKrqFSkf0_byoNe0DWKNDtI465IaAsWFEALw_wcB"><em>Introduction to the Devout Life </em>by St. Francis de Sales </a>(Ascension Press)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://tanbooks.com/products/books/become-a-saint/spiritual-direction/tan-classics-12-book-set/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwqoibBhDUARIsAH2OpWjPyy5-SVzBGvCXSeJgB8peyY1ZlxLONBUmGjRKs0EZ2xY84Y2GGQEaAkPmEALw_wcB">The 12-Book Classics Set</a> (TAN)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="in-lieu">In lieu of gifts</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If purchasing gifts isn’t possible for you this season, remember that you can always serve in honor of someone or pray for them — those are gifts, too! Here are a few gifts that cost nothing or close to nothing for your friends and family this Advent and Christmas:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Light a candle at Mass for someone and call them to let them know.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Make a homemade Christmas card and handwrite a letter; receiving a handwritten note in this digital age can mean so much to someone!</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Say a <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">Rosary</a> or the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-divine-mercy-chaplet/">Divine Mercy Chaplet</a> in honor of someone and let them know you prayed for them. </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Offer to watch a friend or family member’s children one day or evening during this busy season. </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Do something nice for a neighbor, like taking out the trash, raking leaves, or clearing snow out of their driveway. </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/AdventGiftGuide">Download Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">More Christmas Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/schedule-catholic-christmas-season-octave/">Christmas Season</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-prayer-catholic-blessings/">Christmas Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-st-andrew-christmas-novena/">St. Andrew Christmas Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-eve-mass/">Christmas Eve Mass Guide</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => The Ultimate Catholic Gift Guide for Advent and Christmas 2024 [post_excerpt] => Find a gift for everyone on your list this Advent season! [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => the-ultimate-catholic-gift-guide-for-advent-and-christmas [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-12-17 16:30:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-12-17 16:30:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=28352 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 27751 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2022-10-18 22:10:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-10-18 22:10:13 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Advent Calendars: Table of Content&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#intro">Introduction</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#definition">What are Advent calendars?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#history">History of Advent calendars</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#religious">Are Advent calendars necessarily religious?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#importance">Importance of Advent calendars</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="http://how-they-work">How Advent calendars work</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#printable">Printable Advent calendars</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#diy">DIY Advent calendars</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#bible-verses">Bible verses for Advent calendars</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#related-resources">More Advent resources</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="" id="intro">Certain elements of Christian belief have transcended the strictly religious realm and become popular in the secular world.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For example, ever hear the phrase “<a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/">Hail Mary</a>” while watching a football game on television?</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent calendars certainly qualify for this distinction. From modest beginnings in Germany to every big box store in America, Advent calendars seemingly have never been more popular.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":"advent-embed"} --> <p class="advent-embed">Hallow breaks down the history, meaning and importance of Advent calendars–and how they can enhance your celebration of Advent in 2024.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="definition">What are Advent calendars?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent calendars are simply calendars that span roughly four weeks from the start of Advent until Christmas.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent calendars can help us participate more actively in the season of Advent as we await the joyful celebration of Christmas. They can remind us to pray each day and help us to remember that in our preparation for Christmas, we are awaiting the birth of Jesus.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In a more secular context, Advent calendars count down the days until Christmas and provide a small gift or goodie on each day. Everyone from Dr. Who to Star Wars to Jimmy Choo has an Advent Calendar in 2024.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent calendars can be made of cardboard, printed on paper, knitted with fabric, or creatively constructed in some other way. Advent calendars can even be <a href="https://give.marquette.edu/advent-calendar">entirely digital</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button {"className":"aligncenter"} --> <div class="wp-block-button aligncenter"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button">Check Back Soon for Hallow's 2024 Advent Calendar</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="history">The history of Advent calendars</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent calendars probably existed earlier than we have actual evidence for them. They seem to have emerged from Lutheran communities in Germany in the 19th century, where parents and children used chalk marks to track the days until Christmas.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Gerhard Lang <a href="https://www.weihnachtsmuseum.de/en/die-ausstellung/advent/adventskalender/#:~:text=However%2C%20Gerhard%20Lang%20(1881%2D,day%20during%20the%20Advent%20period.">most likely created</a> the first printed Advent calendars in the early 20th century, inspired by a calendar his mother made when he was a child in the late 1800s.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Vintage Advent calendars from time periods such as the <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/vintage-1960s-advent-calendar-papermodelkioskcom--138204282289594954/">1960s</a> and <a href="https://www.ebay.com/itm/304238206004">1980s</a> show that, although designs have evolved, the nucleus of the Advent calendar has remained the same.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Now, Advent calendars exist in many forms, with many themes. For as popular as they have become, they can still be a helpful component to our faith lives in November and December.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="religious">Are Advent calendars religious?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Traditionally, Advent calendars have been inherently religious.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In 2023, they are now popular among religious and non-religious alike. On retail sites, the most popular Advent calendars contain Christmas themes, images and colors but lack specific references to Jesus or Christianity.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Catholic Advent calendars normally contain Bible verses, quotes from saints and other religious references.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="importance">The importance of Advent calendars</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://www.usccb.org/prayer-worship/liturgical-year/advent">According to the USCCB</a>, Advent calendars “can help you fully enter into the season with daily activity and prayer suggestions to prepare you spiritually for the birth of Jesus Christ.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Similar to <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-candles-and-advent-wreaths/">Advent wreaths and candles</a>, Advent calendars are devotions that guide our hearts and minds towards Jesus.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Since there is some verse, quote or item associated with each day, Advent calendars can also help us foster good prayer habits. Checking the Advent calendar each morning or evening can remind us to spend a moment in prayer.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Because they are also popular as secular countdowns to Christmas, Advent calendars perhaps can serve as an introduction to the Catholic liturgical season and the religious roots of the calendar.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="how-they-work">How Advent calendars work</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent calendars that fully capture the season of Advent begin with the first Sunday in Advent and span the entire season until Christmas Eve.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Many calendars, both religious and secular, simply start on Dec. 1. Since the exact start of Advent changes each year, beginning on the first day of December is a simple starting point that can be repeated each year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Calendars normally “count up” until Dec. 25.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Some Advent calendars are advertised as “12 Days of Advent.” These more likely are a better fit for the days following Christmas, from Dec. 26 until January 6, the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-the-epiphany/">Epiphany</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent calendars involve some sort of activity each day, even if it’s as simple as reading a short Bible verse or quote. Often, Advent calendars contain an element of opening or unwrapping something to reveal a small surprise.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Some Advent calendars available for purchase lack any overt references to Jesus and faith.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="printable">Printable Advent calendars</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent calendars don’t need to be elaborate or expensive.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">A simple printout to guide you through each day is all you really need to make your Advent more rooted in preparation for Jesus’s second coming (and, of course, the celebration of His birth.)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Vatican, under the guidance of Pope Francis, created <a href="https://migrants-refugees.va/2019/11/28/advent-calendar-migrants-refugees/">this</a> Catholic Advent calendar with a focus toward migrants and refugees. This calendar starts on Dec. 1 and counts up to Christmas, with a special prayer or message each day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The USCCB <a href="https://www.usccb.org/resources/Advent-Calendar-2021-1.pdf">also creates a calendar</a> for the entire stretch of Advent, starting with the first Sunday of Advent and spanning the four weeks that follow.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="diy">DIY Advent calendars</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Sometimes the best Advent calendars are the ones you make yourself.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Create a simple Advent calendar yourself by filling out <a href="https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/lpress-craft/files/ocf-files/advent-files/advent-gr4-6-StudHndout-B-Advent-Calendar.pdf">this blank calendar</a> with one prayer intention, quote or scripture verse each day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Saint Anne’s Helper also has a <a href="https://www.saintanneshelper.com/printable-advent-calendar.html">great do-it-yourself calendar</a> that is great for kids.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Keep it semi-homemade by <a href="https://www.amazon.com/LIVAIA-DIY-Advent-Calendar-Kit/dp/B08GWS298V/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=diy+advent+calendar&amp;qid=1665958001&amp;qu=eyJxc2MiOiI2LjU5IiwicXNhIjoiNi4zOSIsInFzcCI6IjUuODcifQ%3D%3D&amp;sr=8-6">ordering</a> an Advent calendar kit that you can customize for yourself.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="bible-verses">Bible verses for Advent calendars</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As you’re thinking about Bible verses for your Advent calendar, focus on shorter lines from scripture.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The first few chapters from both the Gospel of Matthew and Gospel of John are popular choices to include in Advent calendars.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Isaiah and Psalms also provide many options for Advent calendar Bible verses.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="related-resources">More Advent resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/the-schedule-of-advent-when-does-advent-start/">When Does Advent Start?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-candles-and-advent-wreaths/">Advent Candles and Wreaths</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-prayers-catholic-meditations/">Advent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-activities-customs-traditions/">Advent Activities and Traditions</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-st-andrew-christmas-novena/">St. Andrew Christmas Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:html --> <script> setTimeout(function () { branch.closeJourney(function (err, data) { if (err) { console.log(err, data); } else { setTimeout(function () { /* This key/value pair is entirely arbitrary. Its only purpose is to be found by a condition specified in the Branch dashboard. */ branch.track('pageview', { 'delay': '10' }); }, 1000); } }); }, 10000); </script> <!-- /wp:html --> [post_title] => Advent Calendars for 2024: Helpful Guide to Religious/Catholic Advent Calendars this Season [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => advent-calendars [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-07-12 00:00:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-07-12 00:00:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=27751 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4025 [post_author] => 4 [post_date] => 2022-10-17 14:08:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-10-17 14:08:00 [post_content] => <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p>Let us not forget the great prayer: the one that Jesus taught us, and which is the prayer with which he prayed to the Father. This prayer prepares us for Communion.</p><cite>Pope Francis, General Audience — March 14, 2018</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Lord’s Prayer, also known as the ‘Our Father,’ comes from the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-gospels/">Gospel</a> of Matthew, with a shorter version in the Gospel of Luke. It is one of — if not the — most popular Christian prayers. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Table of Contents</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><li><a href="#what-is-our-father-prayer">What is the Our Father Prayer?</a><ul><li><a href="#biblical-roots">Biblical roots</a></li><li><a href="#matthew's-context">Matthew’s context</a></li></ul><ul><li><a href="#luke's-context">Luke’s context</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#why-pray-our-father-prayer">Why do we pray the Our Father?</a><ul><li><a href="#scriptural-accounts">Scriptural accounts</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#when-to-pray-our-father-prayer">When do we pray the Our Father?</a></li><li><a href="#how-to-pray-our-father-prayer">How to Pray the Our Father Prayer</a></li><li><a href="#related-prayers">Related prayers</a></li></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:image {"id":24976,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"custom","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://hallow.app.link/HowtoLordsPrayer"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Lords-Prayer-1920x960-v1-2-1024x512.png" alt="" class="wp-image-24976"/></a></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="" id="what-is-our-father-prayer">What is the Our Father Prayer?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Lord’s Prayer is comprised of seven lines and was likely originally written in <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-our-father-in-aramaic/">Aramaic</a>. The seven lines of the prayer are often called the Seven Petitions. St. Thomas Aquinas writes that not only do these petitions contain everything we could ever desire, <strong>but they are also written in the sequence in which they should be desired. </strong>The first three draw us toward the glory of the Father, giving Him praise. These last four ask for His help and commend our sins and weaknesses to His grace.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="" id="biblical-roots">Biblical roots</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“Pray then in this way: ‘Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Matthew 6:9-13</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As noted earlier, we find the Lord’s Prayer in two books of the New Testament: Matthew and Luke. However, the prayer doesn’t appear in the same form or location in the two <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-gospels/">Gospels</a>. In Matthew, the Lord’s Prayer is embedded in the <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew+5-7&amp;version=NABRE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sermon on the Mount</a>, when Jesus teaches His followers <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray/">how to pray</a> with humility. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p>When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward.&nbsp;But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.&nbsp;In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.</p><cite>Matthew 6:5-8</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In the Gospel of Luke, the Lord’s Prayer is Jesus’ response to his disciples’ request: “Lord, teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples” (Luke 11:1). So, Jesus responds with a slightly shorter version of the Lord’s Prayer than the one we find in Matthew’s Gospel. Scholars continue to debate their differences. However, the two contexts show us why we pray the Lord’s Prayer. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="" id="matthew's-context">Matthew’s Context</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus provides us with a few tenets of how to pray. He encourages us to pray alone, in the quiet, so that we can best speak with and listen to God. Before Matthew introduces the Lord’s Prayer, he tells us something essential: “Your Father knows what you need before you ask him” (Matthew 6:8). When we’re at a loss for words in prayer, turn to the Lord’s Prayer with intention. Whether we pray with gratitude or thanksgiving or pray for guidance or forgiveness, God always knows what we need. All we have to do is call on Him!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="" id="luke's-context">Luke’s Context </h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When Jesus gave us the Lord’s Prayer after the disciples asked him how to pray, it wasn’t just about the words of the prayer itself. Though they hold much meaning (see “How to Pray” below), the Lord’s Prayer also provides us with a template for how to approach and talk with God. We call on Him, glorify Him, <a href="https://hallow.com/2022/09/21/how-to-pray-the-surrender-novena/">surrender</a> to His will, and ask for nourishment, forgiveness, and guidance. Thinking of the Lord’s Prayer as a template reminds us that we can talk with God about anything in prayer. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="" id="why-pray-our-father-prayer">Why do we pray the Our Father?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p>“The Our Father contains all possible petitions; we cannot conceive of any prayer not already contained in it. It is to prayer what Christ is to humanity. It is impossible to say it once through, giving the fullest possible attention to each word, without a change, infinitesimal perhaps but real, taking place in the soul.”</p><cite>Simone Weil</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The two Scriptural accounts of the Lord’s Prayer from Luke and Matthew demonstrate the power of this traditional prayer for many intentions and petitions. All we need to do is call on Him (Matthew) and approach our conversation with Him intentionally (Luke). This is why we pray the Lord’s Prayer: to talk with God intentionally and to <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/audiences/2018/documents/papa-francesco_20180314_udienza-generale.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ask</a> Him for our “daily bread.”&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="" id="when-to-pray-our-father-prayer">When do we pray the Our Father?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We pray the Lord’s Prayer as a community during Mass. We can also say this prayer at all times — to begin or end our time in prayer when we are stressed or grateful, and when we wake up or before we <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/falling-asleep-with-god/">fall asleep</a>.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="" id="how-to-pray-our-father-prayer">How to Pray the Our Father Prayer (line by line)</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:image {"id":24955,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"custom","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://hallow.app.link/HowtoLordsPrayer"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Lords-Prayer-1920x960-v2.2-1024x512.png" alt="" class="wp-image-24955"/></a></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We’ve broken down the meaning of each line of the Lord’s Prayer. In summary, we say this prayer hoping that we may be changed by God each time we pray these words. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link" href="https://hallow.app.link/HowtoLordsPrayer">Try Hallow For Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class=""><strong>Our Father</strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As noted above, the first three petitions draw us toward the glory of the Father, giving Him praise and naming our relationship to Him.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The love God has for us is the unconditional, intimate, all-encompassing love of a father. In naming who He is, God shows who we are. If God is our Father, then we are His sons and daughters. We are then invited to come to God with child-like trust and to love as He loves. Jesus taught us to use the word “our.” The Good News is for us, for everyone. In the rest of the prayer, we use the word “us.” This prayer excludes no one. God’s love and Fatherhood are for us all.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class=""><strong>Who art in heaven</strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, heaven “does not mean a place, but a way of being; it does not mean that God is distant but majestic.” Continuing, we read, “Our Father is not ‘elsewhere’: He transcends everything we can conceive of his holiness.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We are all moving towards our final home in our Father’s house — not a place in the way we often imagine, but a state of grace, joy, and true peace. It is there that God resides and where He invites us to be with Him both now and for eternity.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class=""><strong>Hallowed be thy name</strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Throughout Scripture, there is an ongoing emphasis on God’s name. For God to give us his name, He shows us that He is <em>not</em> a disconnected being from us. Rather, God is close to us, invested in us, and deeply personal. The word <em>hallow </em>means to revere, honor, respect, to make holy. We have the privilege to know God’s name and to call on Him. We have the freedom to disrespect God’s name, bring shame to it, or glorify it and make it hallowed (holy). When we pray the Lord’s Prayer, we acknowledge the holiness of God’s name. And we also pray that we might hallow His name through our lives. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class=""><strong>Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven</strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Jesus sums up all the commandments in one: love God and love one another as God loves us. This commandment expresses what the will of God is. This sounds simple until we realize how radical love is: love is Jesus crucified, dying for our sins. Love is the basis of the kingdom Jesus taught us about. It is a kingdom where the first shall be last and the last shall be first.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we pray “thy kingdom come,” we ask Jesus to fulfill his promise that he will return on the Last Day. We also ask God to bring his kingdom here and now so we might reflect it in our own lives. This cultivates our desire to bring a foretaste of heaven to everyone we encounter.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We learn to be open to the will of God and build His kingdom on earth through prayer. Each time we pray the Lord’s Prayer, we ask God to guide the surrender of our will and place our trust completely in Him. In desiring God’s will above our own, we let go of our control. It is only after our surrender that we become more ourselves than ever. Only then can we love as God does and allow His kingdom to flourish.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class=""><strong>Give us this day our daily bread</strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Now we enter into the second half of the Our Father, in which we petition God for His help.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When God saved the Israelites from slavery, He led them into the desert. And there, every morning in the desert, God sent them manna — flakes that were made into bread. Everyone could eat their fill each day, but the manna would rot if they tried to store it overnight. By teaching us to ask for our <em>daily</em> bread, Jesus calls us to find peace in trusting him to provide for us every single day, just as he did the Israelites. God desires us to be fully present, not looking backward in regret or forward in anxiety, but to love and serve where we are here and now.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Going beyond the bread God gave the Israelites, in John chapter 6, Jesus declares, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.” When we ask for our daily bread, we recognize that the Father gives us Jesus in the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/eucharist-holy-communion-adoration-prayer/">Eucharist</a> as our truest nourishment. Jesus is the daily bread that we need to feed us, to fill us, and to lead us to eternal life.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class=""><strong>And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us</strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The first part of this petition is conditional on the second: to be forgiven, we must forgive. When we fail to recognize and pass on the forgiveness God has given us, we move ourselves and others away from God. We are only able to forgive because we ourselves have been forgiven. Jesus shows us how and gives us strength to do as he did by forgiving us first. Through prayer, seeking advice from spiritual mentors, and receiving Sacraments like the Eucharist and Reconciliation, God showers his grace upon us, forging in us the capacity to forgive. By including this petition in the Lord’s prayer, Jesus reminds us that we cannot give our heart fully to God if there is any animosity towards others in it.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class=""><strong>And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil</strong>.</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The wording of this petition is confusing due to the difficulty of translating the original Greek into English. It can sound like we are asking God not to lead us into temptation, but God can’t tempt us against Himself. On the contrary, God wants to set us free from evil. So, in this petition, we ask God not to let us take the path that leads to sin. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We turn to God and ask him to help us distinguish between His voice and the voices that try to lead us away from him. We can distinguish between these voices is to ask questions like - is this thought or desire leading me closer to God? Does this open me to goodness, truth, and beauty? Will this action show God’s love to others and myself?&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class=""><strong>Amen.</strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Meaning, “so be it,” when we declare “amen,” we are saying that we believe and mean everything we just prayed for.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator {"opacity":"css"} --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-css-opacity"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can pray the Lord’s Prayer in both English and Aramaic, with Jonathan Roumie from <em>The Chosen </em>as your guide, in Hallow. You’ll find the in-depth meditation on the Lord’s Prayer (Our Father) in the Challenges tab of the app. We look forward to praying with you!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link" href="https://hallow.app.link/HowtoLordsPrayer">Pray the Lord’s Prayer with Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="" id="related-prayers">Related Prayers</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/">How to Pray the Hail Mary Prayer</a></li><li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">How to Pray the Rosary</a></li><li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-litany-of-humility/">How to Pray the Litany of Humility</a></li></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><meta charset="utf-8">Let your life be transformed by this prayer that God Himself gave us.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":24966,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"custom","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://hallow.app.link/HowtoLordsPrayer"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Our-Father-1920x960-v1-2-1024x512.png" alt="" class="wp-image-24966"/></a></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> [post_title] => How to Pray the Lord's Prayer (Our Father Prayer) [post_excerpt] => A line-by-line breakdown of the prayer Jesus gave us [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-pray-our-father [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://hallow.com/2021/06/30/how-to-pray-the-gospels/ https://hallow.com/2021/02/16/how-to-pray-our-father-in-aramaic/ https://hallow.com/2021/07/02/how-to-pray/ https://hallow.com/2019/08/06/falling-asleep-with-god/ https://hallow.com/2022/01/19/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/ https://hallow.com/2019/09/23/how-to-pray-the-rosary/ [post_modified] => 2022-10-30 15:23:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2022-10-30 15:23:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=4025 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 27550 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2022-10-15 18:51:54 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-10-15 18:51:54 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Table of Contents</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#intro">Introduction</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#weekday-mass">Weekday Mass during Advent</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#adults">Advent Activities for Adults</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#volunteering">Volunteering</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#baking">Baking</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#nativity-scenes">Nativity Scenes</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="http://candles-wreaths">Advent Candles and Wreaths</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#different-cultures">Advent Traditions in Various Cultures</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="" id="intro"></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we slow down to truly appreciate the Advent season, it can be transformative.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">While the commercial world celebrates Christmas from October through December, Catholics and many Christians recognize Advent as an important liturgical season–one that begins on Dec. 1 in 2024.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We can’t just fast-forward from Thanksgiving to Christmas morning!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent is not just a passive waiting; it’s a liturgical season highlighted by unique traditions.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Just as the Mass during Advent features the custom of candle lighting, Catholics all over the world have embraced special activities and traditions outside of the liturgy to embrace this season of waiting.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow explores a variety of Advent activities, customs and traditions you can consider to enrich your Advent in 2024.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="weekday-mass">Attend Mass on a Weekday</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Many Catholics add a weekday Mass to their routines during Advent.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Daily Mass can allow us to experience the liturgy in a new way, breaking from the normal Sunday routine. You arrive at church on a different day, likely at a different time, and perhaps with a different group of parishioners.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You might even decide to sit in a different pew or section of the church. Perhaps you can take note of the art around your parish that you might overlook on a busier Sunday liturgy or listen more attentively to the readings.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">These small changes can help you see and experience the Mass in a new way. Even attending one Mass weekday Mass can greatly enhance your Advent. And it’s a great activity to do by oneself–or bring a friend with.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/adventactivities">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="adults">Advent Activities for Adults and those without Families</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Leading up to Christmas, so many activities are geared towards families, particularly those with children.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For those without children or with complicated family dynamics, the holidays can be especially challenging.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In addition to attending Mass during the week, there are many ways to participate in Advent without family or children.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Being more deliberate about spending time outside–and enjoying the beauty of nature and God’s creation.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Picking up a new prayer devotional can be a nice way to spend time with God and yourself. You could also read a book: <a href="https://www.loyolapress.com/catholic-resources/liturgical-year/advent/books-for-advent/">Loyola Press</a> has a number of suggestions for Advent.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Celebrating Advent separate from family or children does not mean you need to be at home by yourself. In fact, one of the best ways you can draw closer to God during Advent is to devote time to those who need it most.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="volunteering">Volunteering During Advent</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Spending time to service to others in Advent almost takes on a special meaning: Awaiting the coming of Jesus by seeing His face in those around us in need.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Traditional organizations that welcome volunteers, like soup kitchens, food pantries, and shelters for those battling homelessness, can be especially busy in the winter months as the weather cools.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The need for help can be great, but the supply of volunteers can also spike around Thanksgiving and heading into December. As you explore volunteer opportunities, consider committing to help into the New Year, when the time and resources of other volunteers can dwindle.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Of course, there are many other places to lend your help. The <a href="https://catholicvolunteernetwork.org/">Catholic Volunteer Network</a> lists a wide variety of options. You might find an opportunity more perfectly tailored to your talents than you could have imagined.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="baking">Advent Activities for Families: Bake Something Festive</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you have little ones, a great way to involve them in the season is with some holiday baking.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In addition to common holiday cookies, shapes like Christmas trees and candy canes, you can connect your kitchen time more deeply to the Advent season by listening to some Hallow Kids sessions as you and your little helpers traipse around the kitchen.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Cookie cutter sets with more overtly Christian symbols, like this <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/1128538444/christmas-nativity-cookie-cutter-set-of?gpla=1&amp;gao=1&amp;&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=shopping_us_d-home_and_living-kitchen_and_dining-cookware-cooking_utensils_and_gadgets&amp;utm_custom1=_k_Cj0KCQjwy5maBhDdARIsAMxrkw0WxJ0YRdzSBfIctfzXfPYva7oZv5u1FhduNtPp__FlhXr0XUYNyHMaAj3OEALw_wcB_k_&amp;utm_content=go_12561589350_122200265969_506897932692_pla-305102694227_c__1128538444_525258577&amp;utm_custom2=12561589350&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwy5maBhDdARIsAMxrkw0WxJ0YRdzSBfIctfzXfPYva7oZv5u1FhduNtPp__FlhXr0XUYNyHMaAj3OEALw_wcB">nativity cookie cutter set</a>, can further connect your time together to Advent.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="nativity-scenes">Buy (or Build) a Nativity Scene</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Anticipating Jesus, in mind, body, spirit–and figures: Nativity scenes can be visual reminders of the period of waiting and preparing.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">They can also serve as easy ways to share your faith with friends and visitors. A nativity scene placed somewhere prominently in the home is a natural conversation starter and a subtle way to introduce your faith to those you’re welcoming to your home for the first time.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Nativity scenes can also remind us of the rich diversity within the Church. Different cultures often portray nativity figurines in their own image. <a href="https://catholicvolunteernetwork.org/">On Etsy</a>, there are plenty of sellers whose handcrafted nativity sets you can browse, and your purchase may support a good cause.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Building a nativity scene can also be a fun Advent activity. You <a href="https://diycandy.com/how-to-make-a-wooden-diy-nativity-set/">don’t need to be a master woodworker</a> in order to create your own.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">One fun aspect to nativity sets is that you can add pieces to it in the future, making it an evolving heirloom. Many families won’t add the Jesus figurine until Christmas Eve or Christmas Day!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="candles-wreaths">Advent Candles and Advent Wreaths</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Perhaps the most popular Advent tradition is the advent wreath, often containing <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-candles-and-advent-wreaths/">Advent candles</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">During Sundays in Advent, a candle is lit on a wreath to symbolize our journey through Advent as we await Jesus.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Simple Advent wreaths with candle holder for Advent candles are beautiful additions to homes. Most importantly, their powerful symbolism aid us in our days awaiting Jesus.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/adventactivities">Pray with Hallow during Advent</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="different-cultures">Advent Traditions in Different Cultures&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Perhaps one of the most beautiful aspects to Advent is the different traditions it has inspired around the world in different countries.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Consider some of these Advent traditions and perhaps they’ll inspire:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Las Posadas (Mexico, Latin America, parts of the U.S.)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://epicpew.com/why-you-should-attend-the-lively-posadas-this-advent/">The tradition</a> of posadas usually takes place from Dec. 16-24, for nine consecutive days. Posadas date back hundreds of years and spans many parts of Latin America and the U.S.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Two local members of the community portray Joseph and Mary and visit homes, looking for shelter. They are refused shelter until finally being granted entry at the last home, where a celebration takes place. Posadas can take place on a single day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>La Novena (Italy)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">A <a href="https://romancandletours.com/blog/2017/12/14/italian-christmas-traditions/">similar tradition</a> takes place in Italy, where children often go door to door, singing carols and calling to mind the journey that the wise men made to find Jesus. The Novena prayer is also very popular at this time.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>St. Lucy (Sweden, Scandinavia)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Swedish culture features Lucia Day/St. Lucy Feast, <a href="https://visitsweden.com/what-to-do/culture-history-and-art/swedish-traditions/christmas/lucia/">recognizing the fourth century martyr</a>, Lucia of Syracuse.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">On Dec. 13, communities, schools and churches celebrate with a procession in which one girl, representing St. Lucy, carries a candle and offers sweet treats to those gathered along the process.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://www.stlucy-campbell.org/about-staint-lucy/">According to legend</a>, St. Lucy brought wheat and bread to the poor and also snuck food to Christians hiding in Roman catacombs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Jule brød - Bread Wreath (Denmark)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Another tasty tradition that you can easily try at home this year is the Danish bread wreath, known as Jule brød. The yeast bread is filled with fruits such as raisins before coming together by braiding strands of the dough together.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLWEpWVGAYo">This video</a>, from a Danish cooking show, has the full walkthrough.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Simbang Gabi (Philippines)&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Simbang Gabi is a hallmark of the Filipino celebration of Advent. Another nine-day celebration,&nbsp;Simbang Gabi refers to Mass at dawn from Dec. 16-24.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://teamrcia.com/2011/11/how-to-put-stars-in-the-eyes-of-your-rcia-participants-this-advent/">Parol lanterns</a> are closely associated with Simbang Gabi. These beautiful lights symbolize victory over darkness and add beauty to any Advent celebration.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Advent Calendars (All over)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can get <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-calendars/">Advent calendars</a> with pretty much any theme you want. They have certainly exploded in popularity to the point where many have nothing to do with Advent at all.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Still, they can help us await Jesus while building excitement for the Christmas celebration.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button /--></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Related Blogs: </strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-prayers-catholic-meditations/">Advent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/the-schedule-of-advent-when-does-advent-start/">Advent Schedule</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-st-andrew-christmas-novena/">St. Andrew Christmas Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-prayer-catholic-blessings/">Christmas Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-candles-and-advent-wreaths/">Advent Candles and Wreaths</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">How to Pray the Rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Advent Activities, Customs and Traditions for 2024 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => advent-activities-customs-traditions [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-07-12 00:15:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-07-12 00:15:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=27550 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 27448 [post_author] => 43 [post_date] => 2022-10-07 18:50:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-10-07 18:50:07 [post_content] => <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Advent is a journey towards Bethlehem. May we let ourselves be drawn by </em><strong><em>the light</em></strong><em> of God made man.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite>Pope Francis</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">During Advent, we prepare for His coming – He who brought Light into the darkness – for four weeks, represented by the four candles around the Advent wreath.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Table of Contents</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#advent-wreaths">Advent wreaths – history and meaning&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Blessing-of-an-Advent-wreath">Blessing of an Advent wreath (USSCB)</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Advent-candles">Advent candles</a><!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#What-do-the-four-candles-of-Advent-symbolize?">What do the four candles of Advent symbolize?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Advent-candle-weeks-names-colors">Advent candle weeks, names &amp; colors&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#first-advent-candle-hope">First Candle/Sunday: Hope</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#second-advent-candle-peace">SecondCandle/Sunday: Peace</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#third-advent-candle-joy">Third Candle/Sunday: Joy – “Gaudete Sunday”</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#fourth-advent-candle-love">Fourth Candle/Sunday: Love</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Prayer-for-lighting-Advent-candles">Prayers for lighting Advent candles (Henri Nouwen</a>)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#related-prayers">Related prayers&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The word <em>“Advent” </em>comes from the Latin word <a href="https://www.etymonline.com/search?q=advent"><em>“adventus,”</em></a> which means <em>“a coming, approach, arrival.”</em> When we expect guests to arrive at our homes, we turn the lights on; we anticipate their arrival and welcome them with joy. In Advent, we prepare our homes and churches as we joyfully anticipate His arrival, and the light also gets brighter as we near Christmas day, the day on which the <em>Light of the World</em> was born. St. Gregory of Nyssa wrote,&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"align":"center","className":""} --> <p class="has-text-align-center"><em><strong>“Today, the darkness begins to grow shorter and the light to lengthen, as the hours of light become fewer. […] Do you see that the beams of light are more intense and the sun higher than it has been? Realize that the true light is now here and, through the rays of the Gospel, is illuminating the whole earth.”</strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent wreaths and candles are commonly seen in Catholic churches during the liturgical season. Many people also display Advent wreaths in their homes and light a candle each Sunday as families. Read more to learn about the history, traditions, and symbolism behind Advent wreaths and candles and how you can celebrate Advent at home with family and friends.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="advent-wreaths">Advent wreaths</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Advent wreath is a centuries-old Christian tradition. Potentially overlooked by the candles it holds to light the way for the birth of Jesus, the Advent wreath itself symbolizes many themes and beliefs central to the Christian faith. In parishes, Advent wreaths are placed anywhere on the altar, on a side table, or even hung from the ceiling. In the home, you might place your Advent wreath on an entry or dining table or another location where you, your family, and your guests can enjoy the wreath during the Advent season.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">History of the Advent wreath</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The origin of the Advent wreath has been traced back to Germany, though the exact dates are unknown. Historians have <a href="https://www.catholiceducation.org/en/culture/catholic-contributions/the-history-of-the-advent-wreath.html">suggested</a> that pre-Christian Germanic peoples would light candles around wreaths in the dark winter months in anticipation of the warmer, lighter months in springtime. This tradition likely evolved into an “Advent wreath” at some point during the Middle Ages, transforming the pagan tradition into a Christian one. Rev. William Saunders <a href="https://www.catholiceducation.org/en/culture/catholic-contributions/the-history-of-the-advent-wreath.html">explained</a> that “By 1600, both Catholics and Lutherans had more formal practices surrounding the Advent wreath.” Ultimately, the Advent wreath tradition spread beyond Germany and into other areas of the world, namely throughout the western Church.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Advent wreath meaning</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The circular shape of the Advent wreath symbolizes God’s infinite love for us – it is never-ending, just like the true Light of the World, Jesus, who leads us into eternal life with Him. The materials of the Advent wreath similarly lead us to reflect on the everlasting nature of God; traditionally, Advent wreaths have been made of evergreen leaves, such as pine or fir, which maintain their green color beyond the season in which they are collected. Nowadays, there are many modern interpretations of Advent wreaths that still help us celebrate the traditional meaning of the wreath: preparing the way for the Light of the World, Jesus. Battery-operated/LED wreaths are a good example of this as they simulate the four candles but don’t require lighting each week.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Blessing-of-an-Advent-wreath">Blessing of an Advent wreath (USCCB)</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:yoast/how-to-block {"hasDuration":true,"minutes":"5","jsonDescription":"Pray \u003ca href=\u0022https://www.usccb.org/prayers/blessing-advent-wreath\u0022\u003ethis blessing\u003c/a\u003e from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops the night before or on the first Sunday of Advent in your home. ","steps":[{"id":"how-to-step-1665164747305","name":["Make the Sign of the Cross."],"text":[{"type":"em","props":{"children":[" In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. "]}}],"jsonName":"Make the Sign of the Cross.","jsonText":"\u003cem\u003e In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. \u003c/em\u003e"},{"id":"how-to-step-1665164773145","name":["Say, ",{"type":"em","props":{"children":["“Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”"]}}],"text":[],"jsonName":"Say, \u003cem\u003e“Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”\u003c/em\u003e","jsonText":""},{"id":"how-to-step-1665164779912","name":["Then, read Scripture from the Book of Isaiah."],"text":["The USCCB points us toward ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+9%3A1-2%2CIsaiah+9%3A5-6\u0026version=NRSVCE","children":["Isaiah 9"]}},", ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+63%3A+16-17+%2C+19\u0026version=NRSVCE","children":["Isaiah 63"]}},", or ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+64%3A2-7\u0026version=NRSVCE","children":["Isaiah 64"]}},". "],"jsonName":"Then, read Scripture from the Book of Isaiah.","jsonText":"The USCCB points us toward \u003ca href=\u0022https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+9%3A1-2%2CIsaiah+9%3A5-6\u0026amp;version=NRSVCE\u0022\u003eIsaiah 9\u003c/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\u0022https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+63%3A+16-17+%2C+19\u0026amp;version=NRSVCE\u0022\u003eIsaiah 63\u003c/a\u003e, or \u003ca href=\u0022https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+64%3A2-7\u0026amp;version=NRSVCE\u0022\u003eIsaiah 64\u003c/a\u003e. "},{"id":"how-to-step-1665164789378","name":["Pray with the following blessing written by the ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.usccb.org/prayers/blessing-advent-wreath","children":["USCCB"]}},"."],"text":[{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["“Lord our God,"]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["we praise you for your Son, Jesus Christ:"]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["He is Emmanuel, the hope of the peoples,"]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["He is the wisdom that teaches and guides us,"]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["He is the Savior of every nation."]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["Lord God,"]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["let your blessing come upon us"]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["as we light the candles of this wreath."]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["May the wreath and its light"]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["be a sign of Christ’s promise to bring us salvation."]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["May He come quickly and not delay."]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["We ask this through Christ our Lord."]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["Amen.”"]}}],"jsonName":"Pray with the following blessing written by the \u003ca href=\u0022https://www.usccb.org/prayers/blessing-advent-wreath\u0022\u003eUSCCB\u003c/a\u003e.","jsonText":"\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003e“Lord our God,\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003ewe praise you for your Son, Jesus Christ:\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003eHe is Emmanuel, the hope of the peoples,\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003eHe is the wisdom that teaches and guides us,\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003eHe is the Savior of every nation.\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003eLord God,\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003elet your blessing come upon us\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003eas we light the candles of this wreath.\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003eMay the wreath and its light\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003ebe a sign of Christ’s promise to bring us salvation.\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003eMay He come quickly and not delay.\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003eWe ask this through Christ our Lord.\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003eAmen.”\u003c/em\u003e"}],"defaultDurationText":"Time needed:"} --> <div class="schema-how-to wp-block-yoast-how-to-block"><p class="schema-how-to-total-time"><span class="schema-how-to-duration-time-text">Time needed: </span>5 minutes. </p><p class="schema-how-to-description">Pray <a href="https://www.usccb.org/prayers/blessing-advent-wreath">this blessing</a> from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops the night before or on the first Sunday of Advent in your home.&nbsp;</p> <ol class="schema-how-to-steps"><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1665164747305"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Make the Sign of the Cross.</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text"><em> In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. </em></p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1665164773145"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Say, <em>“Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”</em></strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text"></p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1665164779912"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Then, read Scripture from the Book of Isaiah.</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text">The USCCB points us toward <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+9%3A1-2%2CIsaiah+9%3A5-6&amp;version=NRSVCE">Isaiah 9</a>, <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+63%3A+16-17+%2C+19&amp;version=NRSVCE">Isaiah 63</a>, or <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+64%3A2-7&amp;version=NRSVCE">Isaiah 64</a>. </p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1665164789378"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Pray with the following blessing written by the <a href="https://www.usccb.org/prayers/blessing-advent-wreath">USCCB</a>.</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text"><br/><em>“Lord our God,</em><br/><em>we praise you for your Son, Jesus Christ:</em><br/><em>He is Emmanuel, the hope of the peoples,</em><br/><em>He is the wisdom that teaches and guides us,</em><br/><em>He is the Savior of every nation.</em><br/><em>Lord God,</em><br/><em>let your blessing come upon us</em><br/><em>as we light the candles of this wreath.</em><br/><em>May the wreath and its light</em><br/><em>be a sign of Christ’s promise to bring us salvation.</em><br/><em>May He come quickly and not delay.</em><br/><em>We ask this through Christ our Lord.</em><br/><em>Amen.”</em></p> </li></ol></div> <!-- /wp:yoast/how-to-block --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/adventwreath">Pray with Hallow This Advent</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Advent-candles">Advent candles&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:image {"id":70255,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Advent-Candles-1024x768.png" alt="An illustration of the four Advent candles (three purple, one pink) with descriptions of their meaning and significance." class="wp-image-70255"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The four Advent candles each have meaning.</figcaption></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="What-do-the-four-candles-of-Advent-symbolize?">What do the four candles of Advent symbolize?</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The four candles of Advent represent the four Sundays of Advent, and they respectively symbolize hope, peace, <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-for-happiness-and-joy/">joy</a>, and love. In some homes and parishes, people will also light a fifth candle on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to represent the birth of Jesus; this candle, when added to the Advent wreath, is typically white and larger than the other candles and is placed in the center of the wreath.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="Advent-candle-weeks-names-colors">Advent candle weeks, names &amp; colors&nbsp;</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Advent week 1 – Hope: Prophecy Candle (purple)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Advent week 2 – Peace: Bethlehem Candle (purple)&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Advent week 3 – Joy: Shepherd’s Candle (pink)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Advent week 4 – Love: Angel’s Candle (purple)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="first-advent-candle-hope">First Advent Candle/Sunday: Hope</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong><em>“Once in our world, a stable had something in it that was bigger than our whole world.”</em></strong><strong> – C.S. Lewis</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It is only fitting that the first candle on the Advent wreath represents <strong>Hope</strong> – the first Sunday of Advent not only leads us to anticipate the birth of Christ but celebrate the beginning of a new liturgical season as well. The first candle is <strong>purple</strong>, the primary color of Advent and a color symbolizing royalty. Sometimes called the <strong>“Prophecy Candle,”</strong> the first candle harkens us back to Isaiah’s foretelling of the birth of Christ and all of the promises God gave us in the Old Testament that would be fulfilled by the birth of Jesus. This Advent, light the first candle on <strong>Sunday, December 1, 2024</strong>.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="second-advent-candle-peace">Second Advent Candle/Sunday: Peace</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong><em>“May we be in this world a ray of that light which shone forth from Bethlehem, bringing joy and peace to the hearts of all men and women.”</em></strong><strong> – Pope Francis</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The second candle on the Advent wreath represents <strong>Peace</strong>. Like the first candle, it is also purple. Often called the <strong>“Bethlehem Candle,”</strong> the second Advent candle reminds us of Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem before Mary gave birth to Jesus. Building on the meaning of the Prophecy Candle, this second candle recalls that after all of the division, destruction, and dispersion of the kingdom in the Old Testament, there might finally be peace on Earth – Jesus is coming, and so is his Kingdom of Peace. As we read in the quote from Pope Francis, this light of peace shone forth from Bethlehem for all the world. This Advent, light the second candle on <strong>Sunday, December 8, 2024.&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="third-advent-candle-joy">Third Advent Candle/Sunday: Joy – “Gaudete Sunday”</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong><em>“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see — I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.’”</em></strong><strong> (Luke 2:10-12)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The third candle of Advent symbolizes <strong>Joy</strong>. As we continue to approach Christmas Day, our joy grows more and more. The third candle takes us back to the joyful anticipation of the shepherds who journeyed to see Jesus in Bethlehem, even before the wise men. On this third Sunday of Advent, which the Church calls “Gaudete Sunday,” meaning rejoice or praise, we light the third candle and rejoice like the shepherds. For this reason, the third candle of Advent is called the <strong>“Shepherd’s Candle,” </strong>and its color is <strong>pink</strong>, the liturgical color for joy. This Advent, light the third candle on <strong>Sunday, December 15, 2024.&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="fourth-advent-candle-love">Fourth Advent Candle/Sunday: Love</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong><em>“And in the end, everything else will turn out to be unimportant and inessential, except for this: Father, Child, and Love.”</em></strong><strong> – St. (Pope) John Paul II</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The fourth candle of Advent represents <strong>Love, </strong>the ultimate love of God that He might send His only Son for us. Called the <strong>“Angel’s Candle,”</strong> the fourth candle of Advent is lit the Sunday before Christmas, and it is the color <strong>purple</strong>, leading us to eagerly await the new Kingdom of God on earth. This Advent, light the fourth candle on <strong>Sunday, December 22, 2024</strong>. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":70277,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Advent-Calendar-2024-1024x788.png" alt="" class="wp-image-70277"/></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="Prayer-for-lighting-Advent-candles">Prayer for lighting Advent candles — Henri Nouwen</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Each person or family might approach lighting Advent candles in a different way, which is totally okay! Some families will let different members light a candle each week and say a prayer. What matters most is that the candles remind you of the overflowing hope, peace, joy, and love that the birth of Jesus means for each of us. If you’re struggling to find the words for prayer, this Advent prayer from <a href="https://nhop.ca/an-advent-prayer-henri-nouwen/">Fr. Henri J.M. Nouwen</a> encapsulates what many of us feel and <a href="https://hallow.com/2022/09/02/prayers-for-hope/">hope</a> for during the Advent season:&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"align":"center","className":""} --> <p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Lord Jesus, Master of both light and darkness, send your </em><a href="https://hallow.com/2022/09/14/prayer-to-the-holy-spirit-and-other-holy-spirit-prayers/"><em>Holy Spirit</em></a><em> upon our preparation for Christmas.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"align":"center","className":""} --> <p class="has-text-align-center"><em>We who have so much to do seek quiet spaces to hear Your voice each day.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"align":"center","className":""} --> <p class="has-text-align-center"><em>We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"align":"center","className":""} --> <p class="has-text-align-center"><em>We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of Your Kingdom.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"align":"center","className":""} --> <p class="has-text-align-center"><em>We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of Your presence.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"align":"center","className":""} --> <p class="has-text-align-center"><em>We are Your people, walking in darkness yet seeking the light. To You, we say, “Come, Lord Jesus!”&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/adventwreath">Pray with Hallow This Advent</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Where to find Advent candles and wreaths?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">First, check with your local parish for Advent wreaths and candles. You can also purchase Advent candles and wreaths at local religious stores, from individuals selling on Etsy or personal sites, or through major shopping outlets like Target, Amazon, and Walmart. Or, you can attempt to DIY an Advent wreath and candles by putting together a wreath made of natural materials around your home or neighborhood; then, add purple and pink ribbons around plain white candles to signify the specialty and sacredness of the four Sundays of Advent.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Stay tuned for our #Pray25 Advent Community Challenge on Hallow – we cannot wait to pray with you!&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="related-prayers">Related prayers &amp; information&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Advent-Calendar-2024-Digital.pdf">Hallow 2024 Advent Calendar for Download &amp; Print</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/2022/09/30/advent-prayers-catholic-meditations/">Catholic Advent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/2022/10/03/the-schedule-of-advent-when-does-advent-start-in-2022/">When does Advent start in 2023?</a>&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/thanksgiving-prayer/">Thanksgiving Prayers &amp; Blessings</a>&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-st-andrew-christmas-novena/">How to Pray the St. Andrew Christmas Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-prayer-catholic-blessings/">Christmas Prayers &amp; Blessings</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/new-years-prayers/">New Year’s Prayers &amp; Blessings</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-our-father/">Our Father Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Advent Candles and Advent Wreaths: The History and Meaning, Colors, Symbolism, Themes, and More&nbsp; [post_excerpt] => Learn the meaning and history behind the traditional Advent wreath and Advent candles. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => advent-candles-and-advent-wreaths [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-12-10 19:54:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-12-10 19:54:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=27448 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 27381 [post_author] => 43 [post_date] => 2022-10-03 15:11:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-10-03 15:11:13 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent is a season of waiting and expectation for Christmas – the birth of Christ, the Nativity of Our Lord. We prepare our homes and hearts for four weeks before Christmas. Advent is also the beginning of a new liturgical season – it concludes a long period of Ordinary Time and leads us into the new church year with hope and patience in preparation for Christmas.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This season was likely first celebrated in the fifth century, originating from the tradition of fasting several times a week, beginning on St. Martin de Tours’ Feast Day (November 11) and concluding on Christmas Day. Nowadays, Advent always starts about four weeks before Christmas, on the Sunday closest to St. Andrew’s Feast Day (November 30).&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Keeping track of Advent dates amidst the busyness of the holidays can be tricky, especially as the dates change year after year. So, we put together these common FAQs for you to keep track of the Advent schedule and each Sunday of Advent. We also included the important dates that follow Christmas in the Church calendar.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Table of Contents</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#when-is-advent">When is Advent?&nbsp;</a><!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#When-does-Advent-start">When does Advent start?<br></a><a href="#When-is-Advent-over">When is Advent over?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Sundays-of-Advent">Sundays of Advent&nbsp;</a><!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#first-sunday-of-advent">First Sunday of Advent</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#second-sunday-of-advent">Second Sunday of Advent</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#third-sunday-of-advent">Third Sunday of Advent</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#fourth-sunday-of-advent">Fourth Sunday of Advent&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#dates-for-advent-decided">How are the dates for Advent decided?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#What-season-is-after-Advent">What season is after Advent?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#12-days-of-Christmas">When are the 12 Days of Christmas?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#When-is-Epiphany">When is Epiphany?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Dates for Advent 2022 - 2027">Dates for Advent 2022 - 2027</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#More-Prayers-and-Blessings">More Prayers &amp; Blessings</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="when-is-advent">When is Advent?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="When-does-Advent-start">When does Advent start?&nbsp;</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent always starts four Sundays before Christmas. This year, in 2024, Advent starts Sunday, December 1.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="When-is-Advent-over">When is Advent over?</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent always ends on Christmas Eve, the day before Christmas. Advent ends Tuesday, December 24, 2024. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Sundays-of-Advent">Sundays of Advent</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="first-sunday-of-advent">When is the first Sunday of Advent?&nbsp;</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The first Sunday of Advent is December 1, 2024. The first Sunday of Advent is also the beginning of the new liturgical year when we transition into a new liturgical cycle. On the first Sunday of Advent in 2024, we’ll transition from cycle B to cycle C.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="second-sunday-of-advent">When is the second Sunday of Advent?</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The second Sunday of Advent is December 8, 2024.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="third-sunday-of-advent">When is the third Sunday of Advent?&nbsp;</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The third Sunday of Advent is December 15, 2024. Called “Gaudete Sunday,” meaning rejoice, a pink candle on the Advent wreath represents this Sunday. At Mass, you’ll also see priests and deacons in pink vestments, leading us to await the birth of Jesus joyfully.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="fourth-sunday-of-advent">When is the fourth Sunday of Advent?&nbsp;</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The fourth Sunday of Advent is December 22, 2024. Two days later is Christmas Eve, the day before Christmas.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/4yIAPVIKKtb">Pray with Hallow This Advent</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="dates-for-advent-decided">How are the dates for Advent decided?&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent always begins on a Sunday and includes three other Sundays leading up to Christmas. Traditionally, this first Sunday of Advent is always the Sunday closest to the Feast of St. Andrew the Apostle on November 30, whether before or after. This year, the Feast of St. Andrew is on a Wednesday, so the first Sunday of Advent precedes the apostle’s feast day.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em><strong>(Start the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-st-andrew-christmas-novena/">St. Andrew Christmas Novena</a> on November 30.)</strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="What-season-is-after-Advent">What season is after Advent?&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">After Advent, the Christmas season begins with Christmas Eve vigil masses. The Christmas season ends on Monday, January 8, 2024, the day on which we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="12-days-of-Christmas">When are the 12 days of Christmas?&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The 12 days of Christmas begin on Christmas Day, December 25, and end on January 5, the day before Epiphany.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="When-is-Epiphany">When is Epiphany?&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-the-epiphany/">Epiphany</a> is always celebrated on January 6. Traditionally, this day marks the visit of the Magi – when the three wise men visited the baby Jesus.&nbsp;It's often observed on the Sunday between Jan. 2 and 8.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/4yIAPVIKKtb">Pray with Hallow This Advent</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="advent-2022-2027">Dates for Advent 2022 - 2027</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:table {"hasFixedLayout":false,"className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Year</strong></td><td><strong>Advent Start Date</strong></td><td><strong>Advent End Date</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Advent 2023</td><td>Sunday, December 3, 2023</td><td>Sunday, December 24, 2023</td></tr><tr><td>Advent 2024</td><td>Sunday, December 1, 2024</td><td>Tuesday, December 24, 2024</td></tr><tr><td>Advent 2025</td><td>Sunday, November 30, 2025</td><td>Wednesday, December 24, 2025</td></tr><tr><td>Advent 2026</td><td>Sunday, November 29, 2026</td><td>Thursday, December 24, 2026</td></tr><tr><td>Advent 2027</td><td>Sunday, November 28, 2027</td><td>Friday, December 24, 2027</td></tr><tr><td>Advent 2028</td><td>Sunday, December 3, 2028</td><td>Sunday, December 24, 2028</td></tr></tbody></table></figure> <!-- /wp:table --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="More-Prayers-and-Blessings">More Prayers &amp; Blessings&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/2022/09/30/advent-prayers-catholic-meditations/">Advent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/2022/10/07/advent-candles-and-advent-wreaths/">Advent Candles &amp; Advent Wreaths</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-calendars/">Advent Calendars</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-prayer-catholic-blessings/">Christmas Prayers &amp; Blessings</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/thanksgiving-prayer/">Thanksgiving Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">How to Pray the Rosary</a>&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/">How to Pray the Hail Mary</a>&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-divine-mercy-chaplet/">How to Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => The Schedule of Advent – When Does Advent Start in 2024? When are the Sundays of Advent? [post_excerpt] => Common FAQs for you to keep track of the Advent schedule and each Sunday of Advent. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => the-schedule-of-advent-when-does-advent-start [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-10-30 00:12:34 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-10-30 00:12:34 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=27381 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 27299 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2022-09-30 00:19:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-09-30 00:19:51 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Table of Contents</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"ordered":true,"className":""} --> <ol class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#intro">Introduction</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#short">Short Advent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#2023">Advent Prayers for 2024</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#daily">Daily Advent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#bible-verses">Advent Bible Verses</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#others">Additional Prayers&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ol> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="intro" class="">Sometimes it feels as if we’re in a rush to speed through the calendar.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Pumpkin-flavored <em>everything</em> seems to be ubiquitous by Labor Day. Christmas decorations will start popping up on store shelves long before Halloween costumes fly off the shelves.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent challenges the hectic pace of our lives and the sometimes indomitable march toward Christmas. It gives us time to prayerfully remember Jesus’s birth and the majesty of the Incarnation while looking ahead to His second coming.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent prayers can help us focus on this important liturgical season when it seems like so many forces pull us from summer to Christmas Eve. Praying during Advent can help us keep in mind the true purpose of all of the build-up to Christmas.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Let Hallow enrich your prayer life this year with Advent prayers for 2024.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="short">Short Advent Prayers</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Advent is a relatively short liturgical season, so perhaps it’s fitting that short, simple prayers are all we need to feel God’s calming presence in our lives amid the many distractions of November and December.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Consider these brief Catholic prayers this Advent season:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Dear Lord, please allow me to embrace Advent in the way the Church intends: as a way to prepare for Your arrival. May everything I do–every gift I send, every party I attend, every meal I share–remind me to prepare space in my heart for You. Amen.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Heavenly Father, heal my heart during this season of Advent. Help me to love more fully. To forgive more generously. To wait more patiently for Christmas, embracing each day and hour knowing the joy that awaits. In Your name I pray. Amen.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Lord, send down Your Spirit to guide me during Advent this year. May the Holy Spirit help me journey closer to You and lift me up when I feel down and led me when I feel lost. I may stumble at times, but I know my ultimate journey is to draw closer to You and build Your kingdom here on earth–a kingdom that Jesus’s birth, life and death helped secure. Amen.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>I pray for focus today, dear God, because during Advent, my mind and attention tend to wander. There are so many distractions, many of them well-meaning. But nothing gives my heart rest like resting in You. I pray that keep You at the focus of my day today, because I know the peace that only You offer. Amen.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/AdventPrayers">Pray on Hallow this Advent</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="2023">Prayers for Advent in 2024</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It’s been a challenging year for many of us for many reasons. Here are some prayers that may resonate during the 2024 Advent season:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Dear Heavenly Father, this Advent season, we especially are in need of peace. War rages on in our world. It impacts the daily lives of millions in different ways. This year, as much as ever, we need Jesus, Prince of Peace, in our world and in our hearts. During Advent in 2024, we pray that Jesus transforms our world as we await His coming again.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>In his <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/homilies/2022/documents/20220914-omelia-kazakhstan.html">September 2022 homily</a> during his journey to Kazakhstan, Pope Francis reminds us that God’s response to the spread of evil in the world was that He “gave us Jesus, who drew near to us in a way we could never have imagined.” Father, this Advent, we eagerly await Jesus drawing near to us again. In a world that can feel overcome by the sins of violence, poverty and injustice, we pray that we can be instruments of peace and <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-for-healing/">healing</a> in Your name. Amen.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="daily">Daily Advent Prayers and Meditations</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Hallow app offers dozens of simple daily prayers that are perfect for Advent, including the daily rosary, <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/bible-in-a-year-with-father-mike-schmitz/">Bible in a Year</a>, several different <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-novenas/">novenas</a> and daily miracle stories.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">During the four weeks of Advent, these daily prayers and meditations can help calm your heart during a season filled with distractions. Pray these prayers each day to draw close to God during Advent in 2024.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>God, be with me today. Help my heart be open to the ways Jesus is at work in my life. Amen.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Give me peace today, O Lord. Help me to live this day in eternal hope knowing Jesus will come again.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Heavenly Father, Give me the strength to have the same trust in You that Mary had, as she awaited the birth of Jesus.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>I pray for humility today, Father. Our Savior entered this world in a manger with animals. When I feel too proud, let me remember the Holy Family and Jesus’s humble birth.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="bible-verses">Advent Bible Verses: Scriptures to Read During Advent</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Spending time with Scripture is important to our prayer lives during all liturgical seasons. Hallow offers the daily Gospel and other Scripture-based meditations to guide your Advent meditations.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">These simple Bible verses also resonate during Advent:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Isaiah 40:3: </strong><em>“A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the LORD ; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.”</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Isaiah 30:18:</strong> <em>“Truly, the Lord is waiting to be gracious to you, truly, he shall rise to show you mercy; For the Lord is a God of justice: happy are all who wait for him!”</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Hebrews 6:15:</strong> <em>“And so, after patient waiting, he obtained the promise.”</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Luke 1: 34-38: </strong><em>“But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.”</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="others"><strong>More Prayers</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Let Hallow help you pray throughout the Advent season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">How to Pray the Rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/thanksgiving-prayer/">Thanksgiving Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/">Hail Mary Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-our-father/">Our Father Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-prayer-catholic-blessings/">Christmas Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-eve-mass/">Christmas Eve Mass</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-calendars/">Advent Calendars</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/AdventPrayers">Pray on Hallow this Advent</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> [post_title] => Advent Prayers: Catholic Advent Prayers for the 2024 Advent Season [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => advent-prayers-catholic-meditations [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-09-18 20:17:15 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-09-18 20:17:15 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=27299 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 27312 [post_author] => 43 [post_date] => 2022-09-29 17:48:48 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-09-29 17:48:48 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Some of the biggest blessings from God in our lives are the people – our friends, family, and all we love – who are on this journey with us. Birthdays remind us to celebrate those special people, as well as their gifts and thank God for placing them in our lives. Turn to these birthday prayers, blessings, and inspiring quotes to graciously recognize the special people in your life. You can also include them as spiritual birthday blessings in cards or text messages.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Table of Contents&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Celebrating-birthdays">Celebrating birthdays</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Bible-verses-for-Birthdays">Bible verses for birthdays&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Birthday-prayers-blessings">Birthday prayers and blessings</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#birthday-inspiration-from-the-saints">Birthday inspiration from the saints</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#More-prayers">More prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/bFzo8LSTItb">Celebrate your big day with God. Try Hallow for Free!</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Celebrating-birthdays">Celebrating birthdays</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":"lent-embed"} --> <p class="lent-embed">The birthdays of our loved ones offer us a special day to show love and gratitude to those people in our lives. On our own birthdays, we pause for reflection on the previous year, celebrate our journey thus far, and look forward to what the future holds.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">During these days of remembrance and gratitude, we thank God for introducing us to the people who have ventured into our lives and walk alongside us, no matter how young or old they might be. We hope you’ll find these birthday prayers and blessings helpful in celebrating the unique lives of people that have blessed your own life.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Bible-verses-for-Birthdays">Bible verses for Birthdays</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Include a Bible verse in a birthday card or birthday text to a friend to show your gratitude for God placing them in your life. If it’s your own birthday, turn to these prayers as you celebrate another year of the gift of life from Him.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Numbers 6:24-26</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>The Lord bless you and keep you;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">1 Corinthians 1:3-7</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that has been given you in Christ Jesus, for in every way you have been enriched in him, in speech and knowledge of every kind — just as the testimony of Christ has been strengthened among you — so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Jeremiah 29:11</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Psalm 23 - A Psalm of David&nbsp;</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He makes me lie down in green pastures;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>he leads me beside still waters;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;he restores my soul.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>[...]</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;all the days of my life,</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;my whole life long.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">[Read the full Psalm <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+23%3A1%E2%80%936&amp;version=NRSVCE">here</a>.]</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">See more <a href="https://hallow.com/scripture/bible-verses-for-birthdays/">Bible verses for birthdays</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/bFzo8LSTItb">Try Hallow For Free Today</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Birthday-prayers-blessings">Birthday prayers and blessings</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Turn to these prayers in celebration of your friends and family members to reflect on the previous years and look forward to the years to come.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Prayer of gratitude</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Dear Lord,&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Thank you for placing [Name] in my life and inviting me into their journey.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>I am so grateful to have them in my life and for their many gifts.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>May you be with them on this special day and continue to bless them in the years ahead.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Amen.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Prayer to the Holy Spirit</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Holy Spirit,&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Please watch over [Name] as they celebrate another year of life.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>May you be present with them in this time of reflection, gratitude, and looking ahead.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>May you guide them with joy, gratitude, and love on this special day.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Amen.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Traditional Irish blessing&nbsp;</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>May the road rise up to meet you.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>May the wind be always at your back.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>May the sun shine warm upon your face;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again,</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>may God hold you in the palm of His hand.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Birthday blessings</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>As we celebrate your birthday, I give thanks to God for placing you in my life. May your day be filled with joy, reflection, and hope for the year ahead, and may He continue to bless you and watch over you all the days of your life.</em>&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Short birthday blessings&nbsp;</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>May your next year be filled with His joy and love.&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>May God hold you in the palm of His hand.&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>May God be with you in this next year of your life.&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>May God bless you today and forever.&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>May your journey continue to be blessed each and every day.&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>May you look back with joy on the years of your life and with hope for those to come.&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:image {"lightbox":{"enabled":false},"id":80444,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"custom","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="http://www.pureflix.com/easter-hallow"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Stream-Now-1024x341.png" alt="" class="wp-image-80444"/></a></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="birthday-inspiration-from-the-saints">Birthday inspiration from the saints and other individuals</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Whether it’s your birthday or the birthday of a loved one in your life, a great quote can inspire gratitude. We put together a few of our favorite quotes from the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-with-saints/">saints</a> to share with you!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pope Saint John Paul II</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>"Let us remember the past with gratitude, live the present with enthusiasm, and look forward to the future with confidence."</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“Have no fear of moving into the unknown. Simply step out fearlessly knowing that I am with you, therefore no harm can befall you; all is very, very well. Do this in complete faith and confidence.”</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mother Teresa</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have. Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.”</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“Be happy in the moment, that's enough. Each moment is all we need, not more.”</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">St. Francis of Assisi</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“Start by doing what’s necessary, then what’s possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible.”</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Thomas Merton&nbsp;</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“You do not need to know precisely what is happening, or exactly where it is all going. What you need is to recognize the possibilities and challenges offered by the present moment, and to embrace them with courage, faith, and hope.”</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Junipero Serra</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“I pray God may preserve your health and life many years.”</em>&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong><em><a href="https://hallow.com/daily-quote/2022-09-29/">Be </a></em></strong><em><strong><a href="https://hallow.com/daily-quote/2022-09-29/">Inspired: Subscribe to Hallow’s Daily Quote!</a></strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="More-prayers">More prayers</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/thanksgiving-prayer/">Thanksgiving Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-to-the-holy-spirit/">Holy Spirit Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-for-healing/">Prayers for Healing</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-for-happiness-and-joy/">Prayers for Happiness and Joy</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-for-hope/">Prayers for Hope</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-surrender-novena/">How to Pray the Surrender Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:cover {"url":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/illos_grid-scaled.jpg","id":10227,"dimRatio":50} --> <div class="wp-block-cover"><span aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim"></span><img class="wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-10227" alt="" src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/illos_grid-scaled.jpg" data-object-fit="cover"/><div class="wp-block-cover__inner-container"><!-- wp:paragraph {"align":"center","placeholder":"Write title…","className":"","fontSize":"large"} --> <p class="has-text-align-center has-large-font-size">Pray Every Day on Hallow</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button {"backgroundColor":"white","textColor":"black"} --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-white-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/bFzo8LSTItb"><strong>Download the Hallow App</strong></a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --></div></div> <!-- /wp:cover --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> [post_title] => Prayers for Birthdays and Birthday Blessings [post_excerpt] => Turn to these birthday prayers, blessings, and inspiring quotes on the birthdays of loved ones in your life. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => prayers-for-birthdays-and-birthday-blessings [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-04-01 13:03:44 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-04-01 13:03:44 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=27312 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 26642 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2022-09-02 00:57:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-09-02 00:57:27 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Key takeaway:</strong> God is with you in your moment of need. Even short, simple prayers can help you feel His peace in your most desperate moments.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Prayers for Hope: <strong>Table of Contents</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"ordered":true,"className":""} --> <ol class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#intro">Introduction</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#bible-verses">Bible Verses for Hope</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#short-prayers">Short Prayers for Hope&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#eucharist">Hope and the Eucharist</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#prayers-for-others">Praying for Others&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#st-jude-novena">St. Jude Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#more-prayers">More Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ol> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="" id="intro">It can be challenging to have hope in some of our darkest moments.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Even for people of faith–who know the promise of salvation that Jesus offers–it’s not always easy to be hopeful when life’s challenges weigh on us during difficult times.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">But when things seem most hopeless and life’s struggles seem overwhelming, God is by our side.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <a href="https://www.usccb.org/committees/ecumenical-interreligious-affairs/hope-eternal-life">USCCB reminds us</a> that “We cannot know the details of this future: ‘No eye has seen nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived what God has prepared for those who love him’ (1 Cor. 2:9). Nevertheless, we know that Jesus is our future.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">At Hallow, we want to help you draw closer to God every day but especially when you’re feeling hopeless.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Our hope begins with God and what God reveals to us in the Bible.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="bible-verses">Bible Verses for Hope&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Isaiah 40:30-31</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Psalm 130:5-8</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>I wait for the Lord, my soul waits and I hope for his word. My soul looks for the Lord more than sentinels for daybreak. More than sentinels for daybreak, let Israel hope in the Lord, For with the Lord is mercy, with him is plenteous redemption, And he will redeem Israel from all its sins.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Psalm 9:19</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>For the needy will never be forgotten, nor will the hope of the afflicted ever fade.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Romans 8:24</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>For in hope we were saved. Now hope that sees for itself is not hope. For who hopes for what one sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait with endurance.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="short-prayers">Short Prayers for Hope</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When it feels like nothing is going right for us, and we just can’t seem to catch a break, God is always near to us.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We might be searching for the right words to pray, but the truth is that God knows what is in our hearts even when our words fall short.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Use these short, simple prayers to ask the <a href="https://hallow.com/2022/09/14/prayer-to-the-holy-spirit-and-other-holy-spirit-prayers/">Holy Spirit</a> to calm your heart and feel God’s love for you.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Heavenly Father, please be with me today. My heart hurts. I feel overwhelmed, and it’s difficult for me to see the joy that only You provide. Still, I trust in You and place my problems in your hands. I pray that you can open my eyes to the ways in which Your love is embracing me. Amen.</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>God, even though I don’t understand everything happening in my life, the one thing I know confidently is Your love for me. Look upon me, Your humble servant, in my moment of need. Help me feel the peace that only You provide. Help me remember that there is light at the end of the tunnel–Your warm light that will brighten even my darkest day. Amen</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Loving Father, the Bible tells us “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything.” (Phillippians 4:6). So today I come to You in prayer. I turn to You, knowing Your power is infinitely stronger than my worries. My doubts. My struggles. Today and all days, Father, may I remember Your promise. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.&nbsp;</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>I know You will never forsake me, God. I take this moment to spend with You as things around me seem uncertain. I feel lost and my worries consume me. But when I close my eyes and quietly think of You, I feel a second of peace. I pray that today, those seconds can become minutes or hours. That Your peace can drown out my doubts and inspire hope inside of me. Amen.</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/PrayersForHope">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="eucharist">Hope and the Eucharist&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we need to be uplifted and reminded of God’s loving embrace, perhaps the best prayer we can turn to is the sacrament of the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/eucharist-holy-communion-adoration-prayer/">Eucharist</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Paul J. Waddell, professor of theology at St. Norbert College, <a href="https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2016/11/07/hope-forgotten-virtue-our-time">writes</a> that hope can be strengthened through the Eucharist because “at the Eucharist we remember that we, thanks to our baptism, have been incorporated into the story of God, a story that is much more promising and blessed than anything we could offer ourselves,”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we receive Communion, we’re reminded that we are a part of God’s bigger plan.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This can give us hope amid our struggles, and so, too, can acknowledging the struggles of others in prayer.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="prayers-for-others">Prayer for Hope–Praying for Others</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Praying for others when we feel helpless can actually help us.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_volunteering_can_help_your_mental_health">Studies have shown</a> that helping others can help our own mental health. The same is true of our prayer lives.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Rita Buettner, a writer for <a href="https://catholicreview.org/the-joy-of-praying-for-others/">Catholic Review</a>, writes that praying for others “helps us feel connected to people and places and issues beyond ourselves. It opens our minds to the challenges that others are experiencing. It broadens our perspective. It helps us grow in gratitude and hope.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we pray for others, we draw nearer to them. That Communion with others–and with God–inspires hope.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">So if you’re feeling hopeless, try lifting up others in prayer.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we are still struggling and in need of hope and encouragement in difficult times, we can always turn to St. Jude.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="st-jude-novena">St. Jude Novena</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">St. Jude is the patron saint of hopeless causes and desperate situations.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">According to tradition, since Jude’s name is so close to that of Jesus’s betrayer, Judas, most people relied on other saints when asking for intercession.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Only the most desperate and hopeless turned to St. Jude, who stands ready to pray for us.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The St. Jude Novena spans nine days which, <a href="http://forms.shrineofstjude.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ssj_shrine_celebrate">according to the Shrine of St. Jude</a>, represent the nine days the Apostles prayed together between Jesus’s Ascension and <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/pentecost/">Pentecost</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you feel like your situation is without hope, remember that God will never abandon you. Consider learning <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-st-jude-novena/">how to pray the St. Jude Novena</a> and join millions of other people who’d relied on St. Jude in their most challenging times.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/PrayersForHope">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="more-prayers"><strong>More Prayers</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Whether you’re needing strength, struggling to sleep, or seeking healing, God is ready to embrace you.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you found our prayers for hope helpful, consider these prayers in other moments of need:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-for-strength/">Prayers for Strength</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-for-healing/">Prayers for Healing</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-for-sleep/">Prayers for Sleep</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-for-anxiety/">Prayers for Anxiety</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-for-happiness-and-joy/">Prayers for Happiness and Joy</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/thanksgiving-prayer/">Prayers for Thanksgiving</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Prayers for Hope: Catholics Prayers to Give Hope in Difficult Times [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => prayers-for-hope [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://hallow.com/2021/10/15/how-to-pray-st-jude-novena/ https://hallow.com/2021/09/19/prayers-for-sleep/ https://hallow.com/2021/11/24/thanksgiving-prayer/ https://hallow.com/2021/07/16/prayers-for-anxiety/ [post_modified] => 2023-05-26 15:44:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2023-05-26 15:44:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=26642 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )