Preparing the Way: Advent Pilgrimage Saturday, December 7
As the Christmas season approaches so does the bombardment of shopping, holiday parties, family gatherings, travel, decorating, and all the “stuff” that social media and advertisements aim to promote. For many, the anticipation and joy of Christmas are being displaced by chaos and self-imposed expectations to get through the season versus celebrating the season.
To help turn off hectic distractions and prepare for the real reason for the season is Advent.
Advent is derived from the Latin word ad-venire which means “to come to.” It begins four Sundays before Christmas day and is a season of waiting and preparing ourselves, like the Israelites, by reliving the coming of The Savior.
Hope, faith, joy, and peace are the four pillars of Advent. Putting these pillars into practice during the holiday season is a remedy for unfolding the true meaning of Christmas. In preparation for the Christmas season, the Pagosa Springs Catholic Community is hosting an opportunity for all community members to experience the story of Advent. The theme of the gathering will be based on a documentary visiting places in the Holy Land associated with Christ’s life.
If you are looking for a way to stay grounded and deepen your spiritual roots leading into Christmas, please know you are welcomed. The special gathering will be on Saturday, December 7, at Pope John Paul II Catholic Church located at 353 S. Pagosa Blvd. The day will start with First Saturday Mass at 8 AM followed by breakfast, fellowship, and discussion tied to the documentary starting at 8:45 AM.