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I was in Wal-Mart the weekend after Halloween and noticed that my six-year-old son, Timothy, was humming Christmas carols. Then I realized why—they were being played over the store’s public address system! While I was happy that my son knew the songs, I realized how I am never able to accept that Christmas can’t come soon enough for some people.
Getting into the Christmas spirit can sometimes mean we miss the meaning and purpose of Advent. Even while anticipating Christmas day, think of the many ways we can make Advent a joyful time while still respecting the season’s call to be in the moment and wait for the coming of Christ.
Please know that especially during this Advent and Christmas time, all of us at OSV extend our thoughts and prayers to each of you. Enjoy this time with your children—and don’t forget it’s OK to say Merry Christmas!
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Have an idea? Email me at ddziena@osv.com.
Feature Article: Visit our Celebrate Advent section, full of prayers, recipes, downloads» Kids can make their own Advent wreath!
Activity One (Grades K-5): Nativity Scene»
Activity Two (Grade 6 and up): "Civility in the blogosphere" from the Nov. 30, 2008, issue of OSV Newsweekly» This list of rules for blogging can lead to a great discussion on applying our Catholic Faith on the web.
Teacher Pattern: Nativity Match» Download this PDF, cut out the pieces, and let the children match the words to the pictures!
Soul Food for Teachers: The Lord's Presence» Read this article from the Nov. 30, 2008, issue of OSV Newsweekly.
Cathechist Know-how: "Humility Mistakes" by Mary Lou Rosien»
Extra reading from our Parish pages: "Advent" by Anne Neuberger»
A must-have this year is the Advent issue of Take Out: Family Faith on the Go. Inside you will find the Family Advent Guide poster. It can be used throughout the entire Advent season too! To order the Advent issue of Take Out, or to inquire about a bulk subscription for your parish, please call 800-348-2440. To order an individual Take Out subscription, click here»
Check out OSV's pamphlet "How to Celebrate Advent." It will give you a combination of explanation, inspiration, and motivation in just the right dose! To order, click here. More info or order here»
Also, look at the OSV pamphlet “How to celebrate Christmas as a Catholic"»
Links to other Catholic Advent sites and Information»
More OSV Advent and Christmas resources can be found here»
By Henri J.M. NouwenLord Jesus,Master of both the light and the darkness,send your Holy Spirit upon our preparationsfor Christmas.We who have so much to do seek quiet spacesto hear your voice each day.We who are anxious over many things lookforward to your coming among us.We who are blessed in so many ways long forthe complete joy of your kingdom.We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of yourpresence.We are your people, walking in darkness, yetseeking the light.To you we say, “Come, Lord Jesus!”Amen.
(from Catholic Family Prayer Book, edited by Jacquelyn Lindsey. published by Our Sunday Visitor. More info or order here»)
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