Journey to the Manger: Daily Family Devotions to Prepare Your Hearts for Jesus

Thanksgiving is almost upon us, many neighbors and stores have already put up Christmas decorations, Christmas-themed movies are ubiquitous, and radio stations have begun to play Christmas songs. It’s a joyous time of year, for sure. But as Catholics, we know that the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is more than just special cookies, decorations, and parties. It’s Advent—a time of preparation for the coming of our Lord and Savior—and it begins November 30.

During the four weeks of Advent, it is incumbent upon us, especially as parents, to help our families prepare for the birth of Christ. That means that each day we should contemplate the reason for Christmas, putting our faith first and reflecting on the love of a Father who sent His Son to redeem us.

If you are searching for inspiration for yourself and your family this Advent, look no further than these three downloadable reflection booklets, all of which will take you on a fantastic journey to Baby Jesus in the manger. Each day's entry takes just a handful of minutes a day to read, but the time spent together listening and talking about the themes and completing the challenges proposed will help you grow closer to each other and to God.

So take a look at what each booklet entails and choose the one that is right for your family: 

1. The Mysteries of Advent

Each day explores and reflects upon a new mystery of the rosary and encourages you to picture yourself as a silent companion to Jesus and Mary. Walk with Christ and His mother, follow their teachings, and immerse yourself in their lives. The entries for each mystery include a related Bible verse, an explanation, a reflection, a challenge, and a brief prayer. 

2. Awaiting the Gift of Christ: Walking with the Saints This Advent

This booklet will walk you through Advent with the stories of some amazing saints and with teaching from the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Each day introduces a concept from the Catechism, provides a short bio on a saint, and includes a reflection of how that saint lived his or her life according to Church teaching. It then offers a way for you to use that saint’s example to build a culture of life in your home or community. 

3. Waiting for Christ with Joyful Anticipation: Reflecting on Christ’s Love This Advent

Each day offers a joyful Bible verse that speaks of the anticipation of Christ. It then includes a short reflection to help you ponder God’s words and highlights a special saint, explaining how you can use that saint’s example to build a culture of life in your own homes and communities. This booklet ends with a fun activity you can do as a family that will help bring out the joy of the season.

Each booklet is a beautiful addition to this Advent season, and each is downloadable for just $1. So grab the family, snuggle on the couch, and open your hearts to the love of Christ this Advent.