What Is Advent? | Hope, Waiting & Preparing for Jesus | Catechism for Kids What if the whole Church had a “getting ready” season before Christmas? That’s exactly what Advent is — a beautiful time of hope, waiting, and preparation for the coming of Jesus. In this episode of Catechism for Kids, we explore everything children and families need to know about Advent, which begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. The word “Advent” comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming” — because we prepare our hearts for two things: the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, and His second coming at the end of time. Advent is filled with themes of hope, peace, joy, and love, inspired by Scripture readings from Isaiah, the prophets, and the story of John the Baptist. We’ll also explore the beautiful traditions of the season: Advent wreaths with their purple and pink candles Advent calendars to count the days Special church services and readings Simple ways to prepare our hearts like prayer, kindness, and quiet reflection Kids will learn that Advent is more than a countdown — it’s an invitation to slow down, breathe, and let Jesus’ light grow inside them. Topics we’ll cover: What Advent means Why Advent is four weeks long The themes: hope, peace, joy, love Why purple and pink candles are used What Advent wreaths and calendars symbolise How Scripture prepares us for Jesus Practical ways for kids to get ready for Christmas spiritually Lesson: Advent is a time to pause, pray, and prepare our hearts — because Jesus, the Light of the World, is coming. St Joseph's Corner