Finishing Advent Strong

By now, two purple and a pink candle were lit at Mass on Sunday. It is an indication that our advent journey is almost over. At the same time, many have been sluggish. This can be relatable to those who wish they could’ve done better with their own preparations for Christmas. Perhaps a few practical suggestions can help us to rally and salvage our lack of preparation.

Get to Confession

One key step in preparing room for Jesus is to seek his mercy. A key step to one’s Christmas preparation is to make sure the internal home (our souls) is in order. Some churches will offer confessions for an extended hour on the Saturday before Christmas.

Read the Nativity Account in the Gospel of Luke

The second chapter of St. Luke’s gospel offers a very thorough account on the birth of Christ. Read it with someone, a group, or by oneself. Bonus: Meditate on the passage when praying the joyful mysteries of the rosary.

Visit a Christmas Creche

Many churches have their indoor or outdoor creches on display. Some will take it down after Christmas is over. Then, Catholic Churches that are run by the Catholic Jedi (Franciscans) will keep it going for a special occasion.

St. Francis created the first in 1223. We also have an opportunity to receive a plenary indulgence until February 2nd in honor of the octocentennial of its first creation by the 13th Century reformer. Learn more here.

Traditionally, some would pray before the child Jesus for their intentions. Families would also take their annual Christmas picture with the Nativity scene before or after Christmas Mass. Pray an Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be for the intentions of the pope.

Pray and Carol Outside of an Abortion Facility

What better way to share the true meaning of Christmas than to bring the message of life outside of an abortion facility near you. A palce of darkness needs the light of Christ from the faithful witness of peaceful pro-lifers offering love and support to women in their hour of great need.  Pro-Life Action League runs their annual pro-life caroling event throughout the month of December. Find one nearby here.

Gather Old Clothes/ Give to the Poor

Homeless shelters will need clothes and other things with the winter months approaching. Make room for new clothes by getting rid of old ones.

Visit Those Homebound

We know someone who is ill or has had an awful year. It will mean the world to them if someone pays a visit unannounced.

Further, it may also be charitable to take a friend or family member out for lunch or a hot beverage. This shows them that someone cares about them.

Make a Holy Hour

The best way to prepare for the greatest moment in salvation history is to pray before the Blessed Sacrament.

Those are just a few of the many suggestions to give these final days of Advent all that you have. Finish strong. You got this.