Advent Basics
Scripture and Prophecy
Wreath and Symbols
Mary & the Nativity
Advent Traditions & Saints
100
This liturgical season prepares Christians for both the Nativity of Christ and His Second Coming.
Advent
100
This prophet foretold: “A virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Isaiah
100
This number of candles are found on a traditional Advent wreath.
4
100
This solemnity on December 8 celebrates Mary being conceived without original sin.
Immaculate Conception
100
This bishop-saint is celebrated on December 6 and is known for generosity. He also punched a heretical Bishop in the face during a meeting.
St Nicholas
200
This word means “coming” or “arrival,” especially referring to Jesus.
Adventus
200
This apostle is credited with bringing the Christian faith to India.
St Thomas the Apostle
200
This optional fifth candle is sometimes placed in the center and lit on Christmas.
Christ candle
200
This phrase describes Mary’s “yes” to God and means “let it be done.”
"Fiat"
200
This South Indian dish—made of rice flour and coconut—often appears at pre-Christmas gatherings.
Appam and stew
300
This official color of Advent symbolizes hope and repentance.
purple (violet)
300
This Gospel includes the genealogy of Jesus leading to His birth.
Gospel of Matthew
300
This green feature of the Advent wreath symbolizes _________.
eternal life
300
This husband of Mary belonged to the line of King David.
St Joseph
300
This December 13 saint is associated with bringing light in darkness.
St Lucy
400
This rose-colored Sunday marks the halfway point of Advent and means “Rejoice.”
Gaudete Sunday
400
This New Testament figure leapt in his mother’s womb when Mary visited.
John the Baptist
400
This Syro-Malabar liturgical color is used during the Season of Annunciation.
Yellow/gold (or white depending on local usage)
400
This town is where Mary received the Annunciation.
Nazareth
400
Syro-Malabar families often set this up early in Advent, sometimes adding pieces daily.
Christmas crib (pulkoodu)
500
This feast always marks the beginning of Advent in the Eastern Catholic and Orthodox traditions (hint: November 15).
Feast of St. Philip (start of Philip’s Fast)
500
This Syriac phrase meaning “God with us” is emphasized in Subara’s prayers.
Emmanu'el
500
This shape of the Advent wreath symbolizes God’s unending love.
Circle
500
This city was prophesied in Micah 5:2 as the birthplace of the Messiah.
Bethlehem
500
This 16th-century Mexican feast on December 12 celebrates Mary appearing to St. Juan Diego.
Our Lady of Guadalupe