Episcopal Church Foundation Vestry Papers - for leading congregations

Last night I addressed the Advent calendars:One to each of our daughters, one to Bill’s aunt, and the last to Bill’s father.   

Sending Advent calendars is my way of sharing Advent with people I love - who, due to distance, I do not see often enough. Each day, we will share the same simple act – opening a paper door - the way my sisters and I did growing up and the way my own family did when we were all under one roof. 

Mailing Advent calendars the Monday after Thanksgiving is my way of welcoming this season of anticipation and preparation. The house is still decorated for fall: Wax Pilgrims and turkeys keep watch in the dining room; the fireplace mantle is laden with pumpkins, acorn squash, and yellow and green pears. Later this week, I’ll pull out the Christmas boxes and begin decorating. I’ll think about all that I ‘need’ to get done in the coming month and begin to feel overwhelmed.

Taking time each day to open a ‘door’ – to reveal an image, a text, or a piece of chocolate – represents something bigger than the press of holiday obligations. For me, this tiny moment of anticipation connects me with the community of people waiting for the miracle of Christ’s birth, the sense of wonder that something new is about to happen. It helps me keep things in perspective.

I treasure this small act. Which Advent traditions do you treasure?