Advent is one of the most beautiful and spiritually rich seasons of the Catholic Church—a time of quiet hope, wonder, and preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. As we enter this sacred season in Delray Beach, I, Vanessa Gallegos, invite you to journey with us at Emmanuel Catholic Church, where we celebrate Advent with evening prayer, reflection, and peaceful anticipation of Christ’s coming.
The Meaning of Advent in the Catholic Church
The word Advent comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming.” It is a season not only of waiting but of purposeful waiting. For Catholics, Advent prepares our hearts, minds, and homes for the joy of Christmas—the moment when God becomes incarnate in Jesus.
Advent is also a season of:
- Hope (week 1)
- Faith (week 2)
- Joy (week 3 — the rose candle)
- Peace (week 4)
Each candle on the Advent wreath reminds us that God’s light is always breaking into the darkness.
When Does Advent Begin?
This year, Advent begins on Sunday, November 30, 2025, marking the start of the new liturgical year. Catholics around the world will shift into a season of reflection and spiritual renewal.
Advent Traditions That Lead Us to Christ
Advent Wreaths
Families light one candle per week to symbolize Christ’s growing light.
Advent Calendars
Loved especially by children, these calendars prepare hearts through Scripture, small activities, or surprises.
Advent Novenas
From the St. Andrew Novena to prayers honoring St. Nicholas or St. Lucy, novenas deepen spiritual focus.
The O Antiphons
Prayed December 17–23, these ancient prayers form the lyrics of O Come, O Come Emmanuel.
Advent Fasting & Service
Fasting helps us detach from noise and refocus on Christ. Acts of charity help us embody His love.
Feast Days & Cultural Traditions
- Dec 6 — St. Nicholas
- Dec 8 — Immaculate Conception
- Dec 12 — Our Lady of Guadalupe
- Dec 13 — St. Lucy
- Las Posadas
- Simbang Gabi
- St. Barbara’s Branch tradition
These global customs remind us that Advent joy is universal.
Celebrating Advent at Emmanuel Catholic Church in Delray Beach
At Emmanuel Catholic Church, we embrace Advent with reverence and community through Evening Prayer, a peaceful and ancient form of worship within the Liturgy of the Hours.
📅 December 1st–23rd
🕕 Monday–Thursday at 6:00 PM
🕢 Fridays at 6:30 PM after Mass
All parishioners are invited to pray with us as we reflect on the coming of Christ.
This is an opportunity to quiet the heart, breathe deeply, and allow the beauty of prayer to prepare your soul for Christmas.
Why Advent Matters for Our Daily Lives
God created us to flourish. Advent gives us space to:
- Slow down
- Pray intentionally
- Rediscover joy
- Serve others
- Strengthen our faith
If baking cookies helps you grow closer to God, do it joyfully.
If silent time in nature helps your soul rest, give yourself that gift.
If service helps you experience Christ’s love, serve boldly.
Let Advent transform you.
As Vanessa Gallegos of Delray Beach, my hope is that this season fills your life with the peace and hope only Christ can bring.
Final Reflection: Come, Lord Jesus
As we wait with joyful hope for the birth of Jesus, let us allow Advent to renew our hearts.
May Christ’s light guide your days, comfort your spirit, and lead you deeper into His love.
Come, Lord Jesus.
Come into our homes, our hearts, and our community.
