Advent Practices
What is the traditional prayer said while lighting the Advent wreath?
The Advent Wreath Blessing Prayer
What was Joseph's occupation?
Carpenter or craftsman
Which feast begins the Christmas season?
The Nativity of the Lord
What figure is traditionally placed last in a Nativity scene?
The Baby Jesus
Which carol begins with the line: "Hark The herald angels sing"?
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
What object is used to mark daily progress toward Christmas in many Catholic homes?
An Advent calendar
Which Gospel includes the story of the shepherds?
Luke
On what date is the Feast of the Holy Family celebrated (current calendar)?
The Sunday within the Octave of Christmas (or the first Sunday after Christmas)
What is the name of the blessing done on Epiphany using chalk?
The Epiphany House Blessing
Which Christmas hymn is based on Psalm 98?
Joy to the World
What time of day are Rorate Masses traditionally offered?
Before dawn/early morning
What did the angels tell the shepherds they would find?
A baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger
Which martyr's feast day is December 26?
St. Stephan
Which country originated the tradition of the Christmas tree, later adopted widely by Catholics?
Germany
Which carol contains the line, "Mother and Child, holy infant so tender and mild"?
Silent Night
Which prophet is featured most prominently in Advent readings?
Isaiah
What gift did the Magi bring that symbolizes sacrifice?
Myrrh
What feast commemorates the visit of the Magi?
Epiphany
What is the name for Christmas Eve fasting or abstinence traditions in some Catholic cultures?
The Vigil Fast
Which Gospel contains the Prologue that begins, "In the beginning was the Word..."?
The Gospel of John
What is the liturgical name for the December 17-23 prayers that anticipate Christ's birth?
The O Antiphons
What was the name of the angel who appeared to Joseph in dreams?
Gabriel (traditionally held, though unnamed explicitly)
Which feast marks Mary's Purification and Presentation of Jesus?
Candlemas (Feb. 2)
What is the 12-day season following Christmas called?
The Twelve Days of Christmas or Christmastide
Which Carol contains imagery drawn from Isaiah's prophecy about a great light?
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel