Advent disciplines & traditions?

Hello everyone,
I guess I am considered a 'newbie' so HELLO to all those out there in the Christian Forum land!

As we approach Advent I am beginning to think about a discipline that I want to observe this season as well as starting a new tradition in our household.

I would love to hear about any disciplines and/or traditions that you have or will observe this year. I'm sure there is a wealth of fantastic ideas I haven't even thought about!

Many thanks and blessings ~

Hello, and welcome to CF, and to STR!

It's good to find someone with the awareness that "little Lent" is one strong traditional aspect of the Advent season. Given that tradition, I look at both Lent and Advent as a time to focus on what I might gain in living in to all that God has already done for me, by increasing my focus; increasing the "practice of the presence of God."

This sometimes involves setting something aside that distracts me from loving God with all of my heart. It also often involves renewal in a particular spiritual discipline.

I haven't made plans for this Advent Season yet. Thank you for reminding me that it is all but upon us!

Michael

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"The glory of God is a human being fully alive." St. Irenaeus

Although neither of my parents are Chrsitian they brought us up to observe Advent by singing carols by candlelight, including the light of the Advent candles on the fir wreath my mother always made and decorated. That has stayed with me and I love the cosy atmosphere.

This advent season I'll be hosting a centering prayer group once a week at church. It will be a good time to get closer to God as Christmas approaches.

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Christianity is counter-cultural.

St. Basil on theft:
"When someone strips a man of his clothes we call him a thief. And one who might clothe the naked and does not -- should he not be given the same name? The bread in your board belongs to the hungry: the cloak in your wardrobe belongs to the naked, the shoes you let rot belong to the barefoot; the money in your vaults belongs to the destitute."

This sounds like an excellent idea! May God richly bless this prayer group, as you reflect on the three comings of Christ.

Michael

__________________
"The glory of God is a human being fully alive." St. Irenaeus

My choir is ramping up it's activities in preparation for Christmas. We will be singing carols and hymns in various hospitals and old folks residences.

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The sixth day he told the head doctor,
“I am the light in the void;
I am who I am.’
The seventh day he was lobotomised;
The brain of God was cut in half.

- From "The Maori Jesus", by James K. Baxter

I am hoping to work on a series of images for a mediative journey working through the four Sundays on Advent ending with the Stations of the nativity for use in church.

Thank you to all those who replied. I appreciate your sharing!