Advent Resources
This Advent, there are several different resources and tools available around the diocese—and beyond—to help you on your journey of preparation.
All Ages Advent Journey
The Diocese of New Westminster's Missioner for Youth has put together this All-Ages Advent Journey. It offers a daily scripture quote, reflection prompts, and activities that can be done alone or in a group. The general focus in on using the Advent season to explore ways to live into the season without living into the overconsumption promoted by the wider world at this time of year.
Advent at Home 2024
The Diocese of Kootenay has shared Advent at Home, a resource originally designed for use in parishes. (In fact, the document is intended to be downloaded and edited.) However, it can easily be used by individuals, families, or small groups. There is one reflection per week, and it includes a scripture passage, activities, and journaling prompts.
Retreats, Workshops, Special Services
The Centre for Spiritual Renewal has several different Advent gatherings lined up over the next few weeks. Details and registration links are available here.
Several parishes throughout the Diocese of New Westminster are also offering Quiet Days, and special carol services. A full list of the special worship services being held during Advent is available here. (scroll to the bottom of that page for the Advent listings) The Events Listings on the diocesan website also has links to retreats, quiet days, and other gatherings being offered by different parishes. You can find those here.
Online Prayer & Retreats
Two online prayer apps offer Advent retreats to fit into your daily routine.
The Pray As You Go app offers "Pilgrims of Hope" Advent prayer journey. Each Monday a new Advent prayer is uploaded.
Sacred Space is also offering an Advent retreat called "We Need Never Walk Alone". New prayers are posted daily.
Playlists
Music can also help set the mood for our Advent journey and offer low key moments for reflection - and nourish the soul. Here are some playlists you might like to check out:
- Advent with Sacred Ordinary Days (Spotify playlist of contemporary, folkier renditions of classics )
- Advent Choral (a bit more traditional)
- Advent Songs (by Porter's Gate)
And if you want a bit of Advent on your Instagram feed, follow St. Clement's church in North Vancouver for a daily, Instagram advent calendar.