Advent, which precedes Christmas, is a liturgical period rich in spirituality and tradition. At the heart of this period, the saints play a central role, reminding believers of the virtues of faith, hope and charity. Through their exemplary lives, the saints of Advent guide the faithful towards the spiritual preparation needed to welcome the birth of Jesus Christ. Their feasts, celebrated throughout Advent, enrich Christmas traditions and highlight values essential to this season of joy and sharing.
The main saints of Advent
1. Saint Andrew (30 November)
The feast of Saint Andrew, apostle and brother of Saint Peter, often marks the beginning of Advent. Known for immediately following Jesus after meeting him, St Andrew embodies the call to conversion and spiritual preparation.
Role in traditions:
His feast day is a reminder of the importance of responding to God's call with faith and enthusiasm.
In some cultures, such as Scotland and Greece, where St Andrew is the patron saint, his feast day is associated with popular celebrations and prayers for the start of Advent.
2. St Nicholas (6 December)
St Nicholas, bishop of Myra in the IVᵉ century, is one of the most beloved saints of Advent. Known for his generosity towards the poor and children, he is the originator of the figure of Saint Nicholas, who inspired Father Christmas.
Role in traditions:
The feast of Saint Nicholas is particularly popular in Northern and Eastern European countries, where he is celebrated with gifts and sweets for children.
His acts of charity are a reminder of the importance of giving and sharing, essential Christmas values.
3. Saint Lucia (13 December)
Saint Lucia, a martyr of the IVᵉ century in Sicily, is honoured as a symbol of light in the darkness. Her name, which means "light", makes her a figure particularly suited to the Advent period, marked by the expectation of the light of Christ.
Role in traditions:
In Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, the feast of Saint Lucia is celebrated with luminous processions and songs.
She embodies hope and light as we await the coming of the Saviour.
4. The Immaculate Conception (8 December)
Although the Virgin Mary is not a "saint" in the classical sense, the celebration of the Immaculate Conception at the heart of Advent highlights her unique role in the plan of salvation. Preserved from original sin, Mary is a model of purity and faith.
Role in traditions:
This solemnity invites believers to meditate on Mary's spiritual preparation to receive Jesus.
In some countries, Marian processions and prayer vigils are organised to honour the Mother of God.
5. Saint John of the Cross (14 December)
Saint John of the Cross, Spanish mystic and poet of the XVIᵉ century, is celebrated for his profound reflection on the relationship with God. His message about spiritual purification and seeking divine light finds particular resonance during Advent.
Role in traditions:
He encourages believers to deepen their prayer life and seek God's presence in silence.
His spiritual writings inspire deeper contemplation of the mystery of the Incarnation.
The role of saints in Christmas traditions
1. Preparing hearts for the arrival of Christ
The saints of Advent remind us that Christmas is much more than a commercial festival: it is a time for spiritual renewal. Their lives and virtues invite us to:
Seeking charity, like St Nicholas.
Enlightening the world with our faith, like St Lucy.
Responding to God's call with enthusiasm, like St Andrew.
2. Inspiring Christian values
The saints embody the values at the heart of the Christmas celebration: love, generosity, humility and light. By following their example, believers are invited to live these virtues in their own lives.
3. Enriching cultural traditions
The feasts of the Advent saints have given rise to many traditions that enrich Christmas celebrations. For example:
The gifts and sweets of St Nicholas.
The lights and processions of St Lucy.
Marian novenas and prayers around the Immaculate Conception.
Integrating the saints of Advent into our Christmas preparations
1. Praying with the saints
During Advent, pray to the saints celebrated at this time to ask for their intercession and to be inspired by their virtues.
2. Live their values
Adopt concrete gestures inspired by these saints:
Show generosity, like Saint Nicholas, by helping the most needy.
Light candles in honour of Saint Lucy, as a sign of hope.
Meditate on Mary's purity and availability to welcome Jesus.
3. Participate in local traditions
Take part in community celebrations in honour of the Advent saints. These moments of prayer and celebration allow us to fully experience the spiritual and cultural richness of this period.
Conclusion
The saints of Advent play an essential role in the spiritual and cultural preparation for Christmas. By their example, they help us to refocus our attention on the deeper meaning of this feast: the love of God incarnate in the birth of Jesus Christ. By integrating their lives and virtues into our traditions, we can live a meaningful Advent and celebrate Christmas in joy, light and faith.
