The Season of Advent

Advent is a journey towards Bethlehem. May we let ourselves be drawn by the light of God made man. - Pope Francis

Beginning the Church's liturgical year, Advent is the season leading up to the celebration of Christmas. The Advent season is a time of preparation that directs our hearts and minds to Christ’s second coming at the end of time and also to the anniversary of the Lord’s birth on Christmas. Advent devotions remind us of the meaning of the season.

Special Advent Devotions: the lighting of the Advent wreath; the Advent calendar helps remind us of the season with daily thoughts and activities; Advent prayers prepare us spiritually for the birth of Jesus Christ.

Find Holy Masses near you during Advent

Daily Readings

More celebrations, events and activities in Rhode Island Catholic

Mon., Dec. 9 through Tues., Dec. 24: Advent Masses at our Catholic Cemeteries - schedule of locations, dates and times. More.

Sun., Dec. 8: "Sounds of the Season" Concert in the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, Providence at 3 p.m.

Tues., Dec. 12: The Annual Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration in the Cathedral - schedule and more

For the Celebration of Christmas:

• December 24 at at 9:15 a.m. and Christmas Eve Mass at 6 p.m. 
• December 25 at 9:15 a.m. 
• December 31 at 9:15 a.m. 
• January 1 at 9:15 a.m.

Downloadable Advent Calendar (English)

What is Advent?

Pray the Rosary this Advent

What is an Advent Wreath?

Blessing/Prayer for an Advent Wreath

Commentary on the Proper Prayers of Advent from the Roman Missal

Blessing Of A Christmas Manger Or Nativity Scene

Blessing of a Christmas Tree

Festival of Lessons and Carols

Lectio Divina for Advent

The "O Antiphons" Of Advent

Advent invites us to a commitment to vigilance, looking beyond ourselves, expanding our mind and heart in order to open ourselves up to the needs of people, of brothers and sisters, and to the desire for a new world." - Pope Francis, Angelus, 2018