Choosing stillness in a noisy world
The Season of Advent begins on November 30 and carries us gently to December 24. It’s a sacred time of dark and short days that invite us into hope, quiet and reflection as we wait for Christ, the light. Advent offers an invitation to a slower pace that might feel countercultural in a world shouting “Christmas!” long before December arrives. While everything around us cranks up the volume, the Church simply says, “No. Take a deep breath… slow down.”
Advent calls us to something different: to be conscious of ourselves, our prayer and the people around us. Participating and embracing the Season of Advent doesn’t happen automatically. It requires us to make an intentional decision to slow down and embrace “the silence between the notes.”
You can enter into Advent wherever you are. In the car, on the couch or on a walk. Find time—for yourself and for your family to be still, to breathe, to reflect. Prayer will come naturally once you choose to carve out quiet.
This year, may we all dare to pause, dare to listen, and dare to wait with hope. That’s the true spirit of Advent!
Week 1: What is Advent?
Week 2: Why we wait
Week 3: Where we wait