Advent remains one of my favorite seasons of the Liturgical year. In the Church, it is a time meant for slowing down and preparing for the coming of our Lord. Which, I think is why it is my favorite liturgical season as it helps to balance out the rushed experience this time of year brings. The frantic pace of this last month has a way of clouding our minds and causes added stress. But Advent is meant to give us some breathing room in the middle of the chaos.
Personally, I have found it helpful to use late night meditation walks as a means of engaging this waiting and slowing down. Each evening, I take a different moment from the Sunday Gospel and pray through it while walking under the stars. It is a personal method that I adopted from an old priest friend many years ago while I was in seminary. It takes a little effort to make the space for this in my normal routine; however, I have found that it helps me. Now taking the time to go a walk each night, might not work for your schedule; however, it might be helpful to find a little reflection book to spend an extra five minutes in prayer each day during Advent. It is amazing how taking a little time for silent reflection open’s our eyes to the working of God in our lives.
The Church here in Owensboro also seeks to assist with taking a little time aside through various prayer services and events. Keep an eye out for the parish reconciliation services in the city. They are a great way to rejuvenate a tired mind and heart during the bustle of Christmas. Also, Young Adults will have the opportunity to participate in Theology of Tap three Monday’s during Advent. The first one will take place at Feta Pizza at 6:30 pm. I am the presenter for that evening and the title of the talk is “Squinting with one eye: How Hope reveals God”. If you are a young adult that evening feel free to join us.
