Advent Books

Daybreaks: Daily Reflections Advent and Christmas by Fr. Mark G. Boyer48 page pamphlet

Advent and Christmas with the Saints offers spiritual sustenance from those holy men and women whom we honor because of their close spiritual relationship with God. Readers walk day-by-day with the saints, recalling the Scriptures they read, meditating on the thoughts they had, praying as they might have prayed, and talking openly with God. Christians looking for a way to re-spiritualize their Christmas practices, prayer groups, small-faith communities, Bible study classes, teachers, clergy,...

Keeping the Seasons: Bilingual Print and Digital Resources for Your Parish allows you to provide bilingual catechesis, prayer, and spiritual nourishment to your parishioners throughout the weeks of Advent and Christmas Time. This resource includes seven handouts, in English and in Spanish, one for each week of Advent and Christmas. On the front of each handout is a prayer, illustration, and a reflection on the Sunday Scripture. On the back is catechesis for each weekday about the day's...

Paula D'Arcy is a grief counselor and in this issue of Daybreaks she shows us how to truly approach this holiday season from the heart. She also describes what we can bring to Advent and Christmas to make them a more gratifying experience for ourselves and others. Each reflection--enhanced with full-color artwork--takes only a few moments but can help you enjoy the season in ways that will have a lasting impact all year long.

Children in grades 1, 2, and 3 will love the games, puzzles, mazes, and activities designed to help them focus on the themes and traditions of the Advent season. Packed with colorful illustrations, Every Day of Advent and Christmas includes an Advent calendar to help children focus day by day on the meaning of Advent and Christmas in a way they are sure to enjoy and remember. 32 page booklet; 8.5 x 11

Engage your parish in active and prayerful reflection during this important Church season. It includes commentaries on Readings I and II, the Responsorial Psalm, the Gospels of the Sundays, and the daily Gospel readings of Advent for Cycle C. Suitable for both group and individual use, Living Advent is perfect for enriching the prayer experience. Booklet

This Advent, prepare to celebrate Jesus' arrival as an infant in the small town of Bethlehem. Born into poverty, he brings us the good news that God loves us - and calls us to give of ourselves to others. Let the example of Pope Francis, as he models the humility and generosity of our Savior, inspire you. Reflect on the pope's teachings, accompanied by Scripture, prayer, and action. Then go out and share the message: Jesus Christ is born! 112pgs.

Advent and Christmas is the time we celebrate our Lord, Jesus Christ, and reflect upon the miracle of His birth. As Catholics, how can we truly reflect and be thankful for the glorious gift of salvation His birth gave to us? Daybreaks offers the faithful daily meditations and prayers that guide us to a quite, special place with God. Taking only a few moments each day, Daybreaks provides a way to renew our faith and become capable of seeing through the hectic pace of the holidays and...

Get the family involved in decorating, and learn about Jesus together!Includes 7 ornaments featuring the names of Jesus alongside a devotion explaining the nameFeatures silver foil stamping and iridescent glitter; hooks are not included This 'Names of Jesus' ornament book is such a fun way to get your family involved with Christmas decorating while learning about our Savior. And no one has to worry about breaking these beautiful paper ornaments! The book contains seven ornaments featuring the...

by: Paul Maier Many children's Christmas books are long on fancy and short on fact. Most of them ignore the themes of the first Christmas and opt instead for fairy tale settings or winter tableaus. This beautifully illustrated book, a Gold Medallion Book Award winner, fills the gap by presenting fresh insights into the Christmas story from both the scriptural and secular context. The book tells the story of a young boy Christopher, who no longer wants to hear fairytales; he only wants real...

Full of wonder and joyful anticipation, the Christmas season is the perfect time for Christians to take a break from their busy schedules and ponder the wonderful works of Godin the depths of their heart. Based on the ancient Christian tradition of meditating throughout the 40 days before and after Christmas, this small monastic book follows the rhythm of the Advent and Christmas journey as it takes place in a particular monastery, a place as small and tiny as Bethlehem itself. This book...

The Christian celebration of Christmas gives language to the message of faith. In the season of Advent, the church reflects both on biblical texts of repentance and judgment, and on the mystery of grace. Because of God's victorious grace we can take up the Christmas message of the angel that night at Bethlehem, and we can follow the star that leads us to worship the Son of God. This book brings together homilies that Cardinal Kasper has given over the years in the Advent and Christmas seasons....

Author: Fr. John Burns Illustrated by: Valerie Delgado You have a choice this Advent: Get caught up in the annual rush of shopping, decorating, and parties or slow down and take a few minutes each day to remember who this season is really about—Jesus. In Adore, popular author and speaker Fr. John Burns and illustrator Valerie Delgado of Pax.Valerie will help you reclaim the sacred sense of longing and joyful hope at the heart of Advent, focusing on a new theme each week—vigilance, preparation,...

Daily Scripture and Prayers Together With Saint Pio of Pietrelcina's Own WordsPadre Pio was one of the most beloved and intriguing holy men of the 20th century. In this book his own words lead readers to Christmas with a heightened sense of the sacred. Reflections for each day--from the first Sunday of Advent until the end of the Christmas season--begin with selections from letters and messages of Padre Pio, followed by Scripture, prayer, a suggestion for an appropriate seasonal activity, and...

Pope John Paul II continues to be remembered and loved for his closeness to all people around the world. In this book his own words lead readers to the holy season of Christmas. Reflections for each day--from the First Sunday of Advent until the end of the Christmas season--begin with selections from talks and statements of the late Holy Father, followed by Scripture, prayer, and a suggestion for an appropriate seasonal activity.

St. Vincent de Paul was very faithful to meditation, which sets a good example for us in our busy world. Advent and Christmas Wisdom from St. Vincent de Paul endeavors to present his thoughts in a way that can help us to spend some quiet time meditating. His thoughtful words will lead to a deeper relationship with God, a better appreciation of our own Christian life, and greater love for all, especially the poor.

Perfect for uniting families in prayers of thanks and inspiration, this double-sided, table-tent prayer card offers families a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time of devotion together while celebrating the arrival of Jesus. This prayer card commemorates the reason God sent Jesus to earth, and in doing so, reveals the warmth and love that God freely gives to us all. 14" x 8-1/2" folded to 3-1/2" x 8-1/2" Double-sided

Awaiting the Child : An Advent Journalby Isabel AndersThis book speaks to us on multiple levels, probing deeply into Advent's rich tapestry of paradox and splendor while showing the spiritual way through this secularly dominated season of the year. Paperback.

Behold A Guided Advent Journal for Prayer and Meditation Author: Sr. Miriam James Heidland, SOLT Illustrated by: Josiah Henley Let the Holy Family be your light through Advent as you receive the healing power of Christ. In this beautiful guided journal for prayer and meditation, Sr. Miriam James Heidland, SOLT—author of the bestselling book Restore—will walk with you as you explore familial wounds with the help of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Behold features stunning original art by Josiah Henley...

Biblical Meditations For Advent and the Christmas Season by Carroll Stuhlmueller, C.P.

Here are all the characters and then some for building your own nativity scene! Each figure is yours to pop loose and set up as the days of Christmas unfold. There is the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. There is the stable with scampering mice and cooing doves that sit in the rafters. There is the ox and ass and a flock of sheep accompanied by shepherds and their faithful dog. There is an angel, of course, and a star. Epiphany's three holy kings, Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar, are here...

Christmas holds a warm place in the heart as no other time of year. It is the joyful celebration of God's love in the birth of Jesus, the Word made flesh. The Christmas novena has long been one of the most cherished ways to prepare for the coming of the Messiah. Christmas Novena guides readers on a pilgrimage of the heart and is a spiritual treasure that you will want to make a part of your preparation for Christmas each year.

by Carol Garborg Capture the excitement and joy of counting down the days until Christmas with this fun hands-on Advent activity book, perfect for kids ages 4-8!Countdown to Christmas is the perfect way to spend quality time with your family during the Advent season. Create significant and unforgettable memories through Scripture readings, questions, stories, and simple activities that will help your children grasp the true meaning of the holiday. Make a Christmas tree ornament on Day 7Read a...

How could baby Jesus be the Prince of Peace? Who tells angels what to do? Who led the Wise Men to Jesus? Children ask a lot of questions. That’s why each day’s Advent devotion in Counting to Christmas is centered around a question. Each short devotion is followed up with something to say, something to do, and something to pray. There is also a lift-a-flap Advent calendar at the back of the book to physically mark your journey through Advent! Easy enough for older children to read on their own...

BY PAULA D'ARCY Paula D'Arcy is a grief counselor and in this issue of Daybreaks she shows us how to truly approach this holiday season from the heart. She also describes what we can bring to Advent and Christmas to make them a more gratifying experience for ourselves and others. Each reflection--enhanced with full-color artwork--takes only a few moments but can help you enjoy the season in ways that will have a lasting impact all year long. Booklet ...

Advent calls us to focus on preparation. Being prepared for the birth of Jesus Christ is something we can only better with each Advent and Christmas season. Daybreaks by Fr. Jim Torrens, SJ offers daily meditations to deepen your connection to God and help you prepare for the celebration of Christ's birth. In a season where it is easy to lose sight on what's important, Fr. Torrens provides insight and reflection to keep you focused on the arrival of our Savior.

Jesse Tree Devotions: A Family Activity for Advent by Marilyn S. Breckenridge Families will delight in the devotions and day-by-day construction of a Jesse Tree. There are symbols for children to color and mount on the Jesse Tree.

Here's a treasure trove of exciting ideas that will enable your family to focus anew on preparing for the holy time of Advent and Christmas! With a fresh, lively set of suggestions that will attract young and old alike, Joy to the World will help lay the foundation for long-lasting family memories.

Opening each daily reflection is a Scripture quote from the day's readings. The reflection then reaches out to us in our busy lives to consider what God's Word has to offer us during the holidays. Next, a thought to ponder brings home the message for you-to really apply the reading and reflection to your life. Now say a Prayer, an offering and petition to the Lord in our anticipation of his arrival; finally a practice, a chance to change your daily routine in simple ways to bring God's love to...

This day-by-day booklet for families is a perfect companion for the season of Advent. Each week begins with a reflection on the Sunday Gospel for parents and children to read together, followed by daily reflection, simple activities, and prayers.

Oriens: A Pilgrimage Through Advent and Christmas 2020 Make a life-changing pilgrimage, beginning this Advent. While the world rushes, you'll slow down. While others are distracted, you'll find focus. When everything seems dark, you'll see light. Oriens: a Latin word meaning "rising" and "dawn." Your Oriens journey begins on the First Sunday of Advent and continues until the feast of the Presentation on February 2. Every day, you'll take a step closer to "the dawn from on high." Father Joel...

Blessings and Prayers for Families and Households Jay Cormier The Advent wreath symbolizes the passage of time during the four weeks leading to Christmas. Jay Cormier encourages individuals and families to not just admire their home wreath, but to pray together around the wreath throughout the season. This popular leaflet has been updated in full-color to include revised prayers and Scripture text from the New American Bible, Revised Edition. Three-minute prayer services for each week of...

The Children's Little Advent Book: Daily Reflections and Coloring Pages for Children Ages 4-7 by TJ BurdickThe Children’s Little Advent Book is designed to help parents with children ages 4-7 on a journey through Advent to Christmas. Each day’s entry includes a brief Scripture reading, a reflection, discussion questions, a brief prayer, and a simple coloring page for children to complete after praying with their families. With The Children’s Little Advent Book, parents have an Advent resource...

The Days of Advent - Celebrating the Coming of Our Lord Join Brother Francis in this special episode that helps children observe the days of Advent in a way that will be meaningful and fun! This episode includes : A short introduction on what Advent is, how it differs from the Christmas season and why we celebrate it.A fun and catchy intro song to help us remember what Advent is all about.29 meaningful meditations, beautifully illustrated and led by Brother Francis!“Let’s Pray” - each...

This reader-friendly companion provides everything Catholics need for a richer experience of the Advent and Christmas seasons. Whether readers wish to follow a traditional, contemporary, or family program of devotion and prayer for Advent and Christmas, this all-in-one resource will be a treasured guidebook.The Essential Advent and Christmas Handbook covers a wide range of topics including:Morning and evening prayer servicesA short history of AdventThe preparatory nature of AdventTraditional...

This Advent, lead your family closer to Christ as you prepare for the Lord’s coming at Christmas. Engage with the Old Testament patriarchs and prophets who are the branches in Jesus’ family tree and come to understand fully how, in Christ, this family history becomes the history of our salvation. As you explore Jesus’ fascinating ancestry, you’ll see how God’s plan of salvation unfolds from Adam and Eve, through the Old Testament prophets, to the birth of Christ, the Holy Sacrifice of the...

Award-winning author Ronald Patrick Raab, C.S.C., makes Advent a transformative journey through spiritual direction within a daily pattern of prayer, reflection, and action in The Unsheltered Heart: An At-Home Advent Retreat (Cycle A). Raab draws on his life and ministry at the St. André Bessette Catholic Church in Portland, Oregon, where his daily encounters with people living with poverty, homelessness, addiction, and mental illness complicate the meaning of the Incarnation in a fractured...

These Four Weeks Of Advent by Elsie Hainz Mcgrath 0-7648-1049-9Although everyone understands Advent to be a time of preparation for Christmas, few understand that Advent is a time of change--a time when each person is called to change not only their own life, but also the lives of those around them. A sharp contrast is drawn between the rushed preparations for the material celebration of Christmas and the personal spiritual preparations that are the true hallmark of the season. Everyone who...

Here is a volume of relevant and beautiful reflections on the Advent and Christmas season by the late beloved Cardinal Carlo M. Martini."As bishop, Cardinal Martini was also able to cross the paths of many other men and women through his preaching the Word of God, a task he was very fond of. Among his many sermons and lectures, the ones that particularly stand out are those he prepared for the feasts dedicated to the manifestation of Christ, especially Christmas and the Epiphany. Going through...

Advent is a season almost forgotten by the secular world. With new toys and electronics available, why should we focus on this time of anticipation? Most everyone cannot wait for Christmas morning to arrive, but is it for the right reason? Sarah A. Reinhard designed Welcome Baby Jesus for you and your family to capture some of what's intended by the liturgical season of Advent. Each day has a Scripture quote from the Sunday gospel readings, a brief reflection, and an action to complete. With...

What Are We Waiting For? presents a series of refreshing stories and reflections that will assist the reader in understanding the seasons of Advent and Christmas. The reflections are both thoughtful and challenging, making them an ideal resource for prayer. Fr. Leonard's contemporary perspective and insight will help readers to reflect on the gospel stories and will provide an excellent aid to homilists seeking new ideas for these popular seasonal readings.Table of Contents1. Preparing to...

Daily Scripture and Prayers Together with Nouwen's Own WordsThe inspiring words of Henri J. M. Nouwen guide the faithful on a spiritual journey through the Advent and Christmas season in this book of waiting, hope, anticipation, and celebration. Each day of the Advent season (28 in all, to accommodate the varying number of days in the season) and each day of Christmas (12 in all, ending with Jesus' baptism in the Jordan by John the Baptist) contain a pertinent excerpt from the writings of...

Well-known writer and preacher on social-justice issues Father John Kavanaugh will lead readers on an Advent journey reflecting on the needs of God's created world and our responsibilities to our fellow human beings, who are members of the Body of Christ. Every day of Advent is a prayerful opportunity for spiritual growth with Daybreaks, a thought-provoking collection of fresh, lively Advent prayers and reflections that link the gospel to everyday life.Each page includes a list of...

COMPACT DISC From Rorate Cœli, the first words of the Saturday Mass of the Blessed Virgin in Advent, to the Mass of the vigil of Christmas, listeners will be treated to the mystical sounds of the Advent/early Christmas season. This chant, as sung acapella by the monks of Clear Creek Abbey, transports the listener to the sacred rhythm of the monastic liturgy in honor of Mary, with the musical language of Gregorian chant and of selections of polyphonic sacred choral music. Our Lady of Clear...

'The Shepherd on the Search,' a 25-day family devotional advent book by Josh Helms, will help you begin a wonderful new family tradition as you journey with the Shepherd to find Christ in Christmas in the days leading up to Christmas morning. This advent devotional book is filled with fun, interactive reflections told from the perspective of your very own shepherd that will deepen your family's wonder of that first Christmas. This advent book also includes daily Scripture readings, suggestions...