November 28/29 marks the beginning of Advent. As a prelude to the celebration of Christmas, the Church invites us into four weeks of joyful expectation. Through our personal and public prayer, we can balance the holiday frenzy that surrounds us with a spirit of peace and reflection that keeps before the "reason for the season" -- the coming of Jesus Christ into our world. He came in history; He will come at the end of time; and He comes to us each time we open our hearts and homes to Him.

Here are some excellent resources for this wonderful season:

About the Advent Wreath

http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/adx/adwreath.html

http://www.churchyear.net/adventwreath.html

http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=952

http://www.wf-f.org/ADVPray.html

http://www.prayerbook.com/HolyMass/CurrentMass/adwreath.htm

Jesse Tree

http://www.claudette.shalfleet.net/advent/jesseetree.htm

http://www.domestic-church.com/CONTENT.DCC/19971201/FRIDGE/FRIDGE1.HTM

http://www.cresourcei.org/jesse.html

Additional Advent reflection material for adults, families and children is available in the vestibule. Hopefully these resources provide you with spiritual nourishment during this time of anticipation and waiting for the coming of the Prince of Peace.