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 JESSE TREE During Advent, biblical persons representing the ancestors of Jesus, either in faith or bloodline, are gradually added onto a tree or branch, named after the father of David,. The symbols such as Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Jesse, David, Solomon, Joseph and Mary can be drawn, cut out or purchased |
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Manger/ Nativity Scene The tradition of having a nativity scene or "crèche" was made popular by St. Francis of Assisi. It is a reproduction of the cave in Bethlehem with Mary, Joseph, the infant Jesus in a manger, shepherds, angels, and animals. Each night during Advent, children are encouraged to place in the manger one piece of straw for each good deed done that day by a family member. This Advent tradition combines the spirit of conversion and the coming of Jesus. There is a blessing ceremony provided by the Church in the Book of Blessings for the crèche. |
Seriously, my family already keeps many of the wonderful, Holy customs you posted. Thanks so much, and I noted a few more we may have to add.
Has anyone read the Trapp family's book of Christian customs throughout the year? It's great, and every year National Review Online reprints a funny story of a large American family whose mother tried to impose all those wonderful Advent customs on her chaotic family.
It helps me to keep all these things in perspective.
Blessed Advent everyone. It starts in a few hours. I have my Advent wreath ready - that's the only "Christmas" decoration I allow in the house. At least for a couple of weeks! After that the children start to overrule me.
An "Advent" custom we adopted while I was working in Europe - a celebration of St. Nicolas' Day, December 6. I put candy in the children's shoes while they sleep. This gives them a little relief from the rigors of Advent and reminds them of the real origin of Santa Claus.
I have not had any luck getting my daughter to adopt to the Swedish customs of St. Lucy's day, December 13.