This is a bit late in the game, but I have had some questions about how to restore a properly Catholic spirit to the season of Advent. Recently, a parishioner sent me an article from the Remnant by Michael Matt. I think he (and some of the comments) had some good ideas, drawing from the customs of former generations of Catholics. These are all, of course, just suggestions.
- Invite the children to set up an Advent Calendar that they can use to count down the days of Christmas.
- Likewise, set up the creche at the beginning of Advent. Children can place pieces of straw in the manger every time they perform some work of charity or make some sacrifice during Advent, to “make a softer bed for the Baby Jesus.”
- Light Advent candles before family dinner each night, dim the lights, and pray the St. Andrew Novena together as a family. The family can close with O Come, O Come Emmanuel before the meal blessing.
- Celebrate the Feast of St. Nicholas with some moderate treats being put out for the children after they fall asleep the night prior. On the day itself, parents can share the life of St. Nicholas with the children. If possible, the family can assist at Holy Mass.
- On the Feast of St. Lucy, put up the tree and add light decorations, but do not turn them on.
- On Christmas Eve, with the children, place the statues of Joseph and Mary into the creche. Just before the children go to sleep, or immediately when they rise, have them place the Child Jesus into the creche along with the shepherds. Turn the decorative lights on.
- On Christmas, present gifts to the children on behalf of the Christ Child.
- During the twelve days of Christmas, organize visits to family and friends.
- Leave the creche up for at least the twelve days of Christmas; possible, longer, but taking them down no later than Candlemas.
Reference article is here.
