Advent and Christmas Seasons - USCCB Advent blessings, calendar, customs
Advent/Christmas at AmericanCatholic.Org Reflections, youtubes, customs and more
In the 1800s, German Lutherans would countdown the days to Christmas with chalk marks on the door or candles or handmade calendars. Around 1908, printer Gerhard Lang produced a calendar on which one would attach a small picture each day for 24 days. He later printed calendars with doors to open. These became popular and spread through Europe and to the US. In recent years, this Advent tradition has been adapted to the online world. Here are a few:
Advent Calendar from USCCB
Online Advent Calendar from St. Margaret Mary in Naperville, IL
Marian Advent Calendar by the University of Dayton
Spiritual Countdown Advent Calendar from Beliefnet
The world's refugees and migrants are fitting companions for our Advent journey. Their stories of courage and perseverance in many ways remind us of the journeys of the Holy Family, as they first sought shelter in Bethlehem, and then fled to Egypt.
Advent Journey to Justice (PDF) Booklet of Advent reflections, prayer and traditions in solidarity with refugees and migrants Adviento Caminar con Justicia (PDF)
Posadas Project Educational resources and DVD on young refugees and migrants
Parish-wide Advent Event - Pflaum Publishing and Good Ground Press
'Gather in My Name' Advent Event - Sadlier