Advent Rituals for Church and Home

When we think of rituals and traditions, we often think of them in relation to older people in our congregations. However, children and youth are lovers of rituals and traditions.

Ask a parent. After one year of celebrating Advent by lighting candles on an Advent wreath in the home, children will often say, "We ALWAYS light an Advent wreath in our home." Why do children and youth love traditions and rituals? For many, the sameness of the ritual or tradition offers the comfort of sameness in a fast-changing world. Traditions and rituals also give us ways of relating from one generation to another. A teen who may resist spending time talking with relatives will willingly enter into a long-established tradition with them.

Advent and Christmas are prime times when we are renewed as a people of faith. We connect to one another across generational lines, and we remember anew the wonder of the birth of Jesus. Here are some suggestions for starting or continuing rituals and traditions for Advent and Christmas at church and at home.

• Advent Workshop. Individuals gather at church on the first afternoon or evening of Advent and make something to be used in homes during the Advent Season. They may create Advent wreaths, Advent candles, banners, or ornaments.
  
• Advent Devotional Guide. Link the devotions to the Scripture being used in worship during the Advent season. Use prepared guides, such as the one included in Pocketsmagazine, or write your own.
  
• Christmas Pageant. Jokes about bathrobe-clad shepherds aside, a yearly Christmas Pageant adds to the joy of the season as the church comes together to re-enact the birth of Jesus. My church's pageant is an "impromptu" pageant. The congregation gathers in the sanctuary; and children, youth, and adults volunteer for parts. The participants then put on costumes for a narrated retelling of the birth of Jesus. Don't just save the re-enactments for church. Make costumes together at home and re-enact the birth as part of a family worship.
  
• Caroling. Last year, our youth group set out from the church on the Wednesday before Christmas and caroled in the neighborhood. Neighbors were delighted, and the youth were excited about their witness in this way. Sing carols at home as well. Let each family member pick a favorite carol, adding a new favorite each week. By Christmas day you will have a whole list of songs to sing!
  
• Cards. Sending greetings in the season before Christmas reminds us of who is important in our lives. This year, include also those who might not be receiving cards because they are alone.

In this Advent and Christmas season, what are the rituals and traditions of your congregation? What are your rituals at home? What memories are you making with your children and youth?