by Nicholas Valenzuela

In the first weeks of Advent, it’s important to prepare for the coming of our savior. Here’s how.

Advent is an important time for Catholics. It’s a time of anticipation for the birth of Jesus Christ that begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and marks the beginning of the Christian Liturgical year. 

Because of how important this time is, many Christians may be wondering, “What should I do to prepare?” There are many things to do to prepare for the coming of Jesus Christ, and they aren’t that time-consuming—all you need to do is set aside some time for God.

The biggest and most impactful thing you can do is to pray. It doesn’t have to take long, just a minute or two. Praying is our way of talking and communicating with God. Praying doesn’t have to be in a church or somewhere specific—just a quiet place to communicate with God is enough. Whether it be before meals, when you wake and lie down or whenever you have time, prayer is something we should all strive to do more of.

Something else important to do during Advent is to go to Mass. Going on Sunday or whenever there is a service is great because it allows us to receive the Eucharist. One of the days that just happened was a holy day of obligation: the Immaculate Conception. 

It took place on the eighth of December this year and is one of the most important days of the liturgical year. It’s the day that Mary’s mother, Saint Ann, conceived the Virgin Mary. Because she was untainted by her original sin, Mary would be able to carry Jesus when she grew up. 

The Immaculate Conception is significant to the Catholic Church because it’s one of the most important days in history. It’s a vital day in the Church because of this and is a big step towards Jesus’s lineage on earth. 

Another way to prepare for the coming of Jesus Christ is to read the bible. Reading a few verses daily can help you connect with your faith and understand how to think and approach things in this important time.

Many people decorate their houses around this time of year—not just with a Christmas tree and stockings by the fireplace, but with a wreath, sometimes on the door, or with three purple and pink candles. Additionally, families often place a small nativity set by the fireplace or somewhere else in the house. 

If you plan on going to mass at least once in the coming weeks, I’d recommend going on Christmas morning, as it’s (other than Easter) the most important day of the Christian liturgical Year.