12 Questions
What did families initially do to mark the 24 days leading up to Christmas?
Light candles, pray, and read Scripture
Where did the Advent calendar originate?
Germany
What does the Advent calendar symbolize?
The waiting and preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ
What is often found behind each door or window of modern-day Advent calendars?
Chocolate or a small toy
What is the purpose of using an Advent calendar in some churches and families?
To incorporate daily devotionals, prayers, and Scripture readings
What is the significance of the 24 days leading up to Christmas in the Advent calendar?
They represent the four weeks of Advent
What is the central theological concept of Christmas?
God becomes human
What is the significance of Jesus' birth in the context of salvation history?
It marks the beginning of God's plan to redeem humanity from sin
What is a characteristic of Jesus Christ, according to the concept of Incarnation?
He is both fully human and fully divine
In what century did Christmas emerge as a distinct holiday?
4th century
What is the liturgical color of the Christmas season?
White
What marks the beginning of the Christmas season?
Advent
Study Notes
Theology of Advent: Advent Calendar
Origins and History
- The Advent calendar originated in Germany in the mid-19th century
- Initially, families would mark the 24 days leading up to Christmas by lighting candles, praying, and reading Scripture
- In the early 20th century, German Christians began using printed calendars with 24 doors or windows, one for each day leading up to Christmas
Symbolism and Significance
- The Advent calendar symbolizes the waiting and preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ
- The 24 days leading up to Christmas represent the four weeks of Advent, a time of expectation and preparation for the birth of Jesus
- Opening a door or window each day reveals a Scripture verse, prayer, or devotional thought, helping individuals focus on the true meaning of Christmas
Modern-Day Practices
- Many Advent calendars today contain chocolate or small toys behind each door, making it a fun and interactive way for families to count down to Christmas
- Some churches and families use Advent calendars as a tool for spiritual growth, incorporating daily devotionals, prayers, and Scripture readings
- The Advent calendar has become a popular tradition, helping individuals and families maintain a focus on the spiritual significance of the Christmas season amidst commercialization and distractions
Learn about the origins, symbolism, and modern-day practices of the Advent calendar, a tradition that helps Christians prepare for the coming of Jesus Christ during the Christmas season. Discover how families and churches use Advent calendars to focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Explore the history and significance of this beloved tradition.
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