Advent

Lighting the Advent Wreath

Every Monday morning during Advent, the St. Ambrose School community gathers in the gym for the lighting of the Advent wreath, prayer and song.  The students are reminded of the purpose of the season as they are instructed in the hope, peace, and joy of anticipation as the world waits for the birth of Jesus.  They are encouraged to bring the attitude of hope, peace, and joy back to their classrooms and into their relationships with each other and their families.

Sharing and Caring

There are also various projects, such as caroling in nursing homes, that help students focus on giving to others.  St. Ambrose strives to instill the proper view of Advent and Christmas as a time to focus on sharing talents, time and treasure with the community, and particularly to see the needs of those less fortunate.  In the weeks leading up to Christmas, the students are presented with a clear and mature understanding of the holiday as a time of tremendous importance to their faith.  They are taught to keep the receiving of gifts in proper perspective, for the greatest gift is Jesus.

Christmas Concert

One of the highlights of Advent is the Christmas Concert.  All of the students perform on the altar at St. Ambrose church.  All parents, families, friends and parishioners are invited, and the church is filled to overflowing with a happy and appreciative audience.  It is truly an evening that reflects the joy and glory of this beautiful season.

As the days to Christmas dwindle down to a few, the students and their families are encouraged to participate in the Advent liturgies of the parish.  There are prayer services, adult concerts, the sacrament of reconciliation, and the Christmas Eve Mass.  The St Ambrose students, especially the younger grades, are given important roles in leading the parish in song and prayer.

Advent at St. Ambrose School is a time of preparation, prayer, and pondering.  It is a time of learning, doing, and sharing.  It is a time of peace, patience, and anticipation that leads to a joyous and faith filled Christmas.

————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-