We see Advent Calendars in the foyer of the church, at craft fairs, and even in shopping malls! Every day, as we step closer to the blessed day of Jesus' birth, we get some treat to celebrate and keep us looking forward-  a picture of a star, the words "shepherds watched o'er their flocks by night", or a small chocolate.  



How did the tradition of the Advent Calendar begin?  
Advent Calendars stem from the 19th century tradition in Germany when Lutheran families marked the 24 days in December preceding Christmas by drawing a chalk line on their door, or lighting a small candle for each day.  In the early 1900s, Gerhard Lang published the first commercial Advent Calendar and a tradition was born!

There are Advent Calendars for both children and adults.  While opening those little doors is a lot of fun, there are also some on-line Calendars available, too:

• This children's Advent Calendar marks each day with an idea of how your child can help prepare for Jesus' birthday: http://www.loyolapress.com/our-catholic-faith/liturgical-year/advent/calendars/childrens-advent-calendar
• When you click each day on this on-line calendar for adults, it brings you to a page with a special story or message for that day:  http://www.loyolapress.com/our-catholic-faith/liturgical-year/advent/calendars/advent-calendar-for-adults

No matter how you mark the days until Christmas, enjoy the anticipation!