Advent Around the World: Advent Day Sixteen 16/12/24
As we journey through Advent, we discover a beautiful tapestry of traditions that span continents and centuries. From the German Advent wreath to the Filipino Simbang Gabi, these customs reflect humanity's shared anticipation of Christmas whilst celebrating our unique cultural expressions.
Here are some beautiful Advent traditions from around the world:
Germany's Advent wreath, which has become a global tradition (Adventskranz) features four candles lit successively each Sunday before Christmas, symbolising hope, love, joy, and peace. The circular wreath represents God's eternal love.
In the Philippines, Simbang Gabi consists of nine pre-dawn Masses leading up to Christmas Day. Communities gather in the early morning darkness, symbolising vigilant waiting for Christ's birth.
The Mexican Las Posadas recreates Mary and Joseph's search for lodging through nine evenings of processions, teaching hospitality and community solidarity.
In Sweden, St. Lucia Day (13th December) features processions led by a young woman wearing a crown of candles, bringing light to the darkness of winter whilst honouring the martyr's courage and faith.
The Czech tradition of Barborky involves cutting cherry tree branches on St. Barbara's Day (4th December) and watching them bloom indoors by Christmas Eve, symbolising the patience of waiting and the miracle of new life.
Understanding Our Starting Point
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. - Psalm 98:3
Think about that for a moment - from the bustling streets of Manila to the snowy villages of Germany, from the warm homes of Mexico to the candlelit churches of Sweden - we're all part of this amazing global family of faith. As St. John Paul II said "The Church respects the cultures of peoples. Moreover, in assuming them, she purifies, strengthens and elevates them."
This is especially meaningful for us young Catholics today. When we scroll through Instagram or TikTok, we see countless different ways people live and express themselves. Similarly, our Catholic faith welcomes this diversity! Whether you're lighting candles with your abuela during Las Posadas or waking up super early for Simbang Gabi with your Filipino friends, each tradition adds its own unique flavour to our faith whilst keeping Christ at the centre. It's like having a playlist where every song is different but they're all about the same beautiful truth - just as we might express our faith differently from our parents or grandparents, but we're all celebrating the same mystery of Advent.
Making It Real: Practical Steps
You might consider researching and incorporating one new Advent tradition from another culture into your celebrations this year. Share these traditions with friends and family, creating bridges of understanding and appreciation.
Today's Reflection
- How do different Advent traditions reflect the universal longing for Christ?
- What can we learn from how other cultures celebrate this sacred season?
- How might embracing diverse traditions enrich our own spiritual journey?
Finding Your Own Path
Whilst exploring different traditions, reflect on how they speak to your heart and might deepen your own Advent journey.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the beautiful diversity of Your Church. Help us to see Your face in different traditions and customs, uniting us all in anticipation of Your coming. Guide us to appreciate and learn from one another as we prepare our hearts for Christmas. Amen.
Your Personal Invitation
Choose one Advent tradition from another culture to learn about and share with someone this week.
God bless,
Mel
