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It is supposed to be a mini-Lent, a time of fasting and preparation to receive the newborn Lord of Lords.

How many Catholics are actually aware of this?

In our home, we’ve had some success over the past few years reclaiming Advent by fasting from all electronic media. That may sound difficult, but the fact is it’s quite easy — certainly easier than when we do it during Lent.

That's the spirit! Just do it! This year, reclaim Advent - enjoy it! Limit your gifts! Consider donating to those who have little or nothing - like Aid to the Church to assist in rebuilding the Chaldean Catholic Churches in Iraq. Poverty is a major problem in Lebanon. Each year, our parishioners give to a needy family in Lebanon. On December 23, our pastor wires the funds collected to a specific individual in Lebanon who ensures that ALL of what has been collected is distributed to one or several (if there is enough money) families. They received the money on Christmas Even with sufficient time to purchase food for their Christmas table and a few small gifts for the children.

The Christmas season begins on Christmas Day and lasts for two weeks. Go out and enjoy all of the splendor with your family. Make this the year you turn off the news and tune in to the festivities offered up in your local parish. You will never regret it.