Introduction to Advent

The calculation of Advent in the Orthodox Church differs from that in Western Churches. Whereas the season of Advent in the West begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, or the Sunday nearest the feast of St. Andrew, the Apostle (Nov. 30), the “Christmas Fast,” or “Little Lent”, as it is called in the Orthodox Church, traditionally begins 40 days before Christmas on November 15.

Our preparation during the season of Advent is, of course, focused on the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ in the flesh, the Incarnation. Read more…