First Sunday of Advent

Categories:: Religious
Tags:: Catholic Christian International
Where:: International
Date change rule:: Fourth Sunday before Christmas
Holiday emoji:: 🕯️

The First Sunday of Advent begins every year on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. This sacred period, derived from the Latin ‘adventus’ meaning ‘arrival,’ marks the start of the Christian liturgical year and a four-week spiritual journey. Prepare for Christmas by lighting the first Advent candle, engaging in reflection, and embracing the season of hope.

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Expected First Sunday of Advent Deals

As a season of spiritual preparation rather than commercialism, the First Sunday of Advent is not typically associated with consumer deals. However, many churches and religious organizations, such as Catholic Relief Services and World Vision, often launch special Advent campaigns focused on charitable giving and community support. Families may seek out resources from publishers like Zondervan or Magnificat for daily devotionals and reflections. Retailers specializing in religious goods, such as Dayspring or independent artisans on Etsy, might offer Advent wreaths, candles, and calendars. We encourage supporting these organizations and focusing on the spiritual significance of the season.

Platform Guide for First Sunday of Advent

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #FirstSundayOfAdvent. Share visuals of Advent wreaths, family traditions, or moments of reflection.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #FirstSundayOfAdvent. Engage with community groups about Advent reflections and spiritual preparation.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #FirstSundayOfAdvent. Share inspiring quotes, daily reflections, or spiritual insights for the season.

First Sunday of Advent Hero

Pope Gregory I

Pope Gregory I, also known as Gregory the Great, served as Pope from 590 to 604 A.D. He is credited with significant reforms to the Catholic liturgy and the organization of the Church. His influence helped shape the Advent season's structure and its emphasis on spiritual preparation.

History of First Sunday of Advent

The First Sunday of Advent is a reverent day in the Christian community and offers an opportunity for renewal and the beginning of the holy Advent season. The Advent season marks the ushering in of the liturgical year which is observed as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the nativity or birth of Christ and his return in the Second Coming.

There is no certainty on when the Advent season came to be, however it was certainly in existence from about 480 with the introduction of a novelty that ordered monks to fast every day in December until Christmas. According to Saint Gregory of Tours, the celebration of Advent began in the fifth century when Bishop Perpetuus directed the start of fasting three times a week, from St. Martin’s Day on November 11 until Christmas. This is why Advent was sometimes also named Lent of St. Martin, and by the year 581, all of France was abiding by this practice. In fact, more devout followers fasted every day.

In the 13th century, the fast of Advent was not commonly practiced although it was still generally observed. It was then limited to the period from the feast of Saint Andrew on November 30, until Christmas Day, and falls on the Sunday closest to St. Andrew’s Day, or the fourth Sunday before Christmas.

The liturgy of Advent remained unchanged until the Second Vatican Council introduced minor changes, differentiating the spirit of Lent from that of Advent, emphasizing Advent as a season of hope for Christ’s resurrection.

First Sunday of Advent timeline

480 A.D.

The Fast Novelty

The Council of Tours of 567 introduces a novelty that orders monks to fast every day during December until Christmas Day.

581 A.D.

The Practice is Adopted

The Macon council adopts the practice in Tours and all of France observes three days of fasting a week from the feast of Saint Martin until Christmas.

1200s

The Decline of an Era

In the 13th century, fasting during Advent declines.

1950s

Advent Calendar

Advent traditions spread from Europe to the United States, especially the Advent calendar, which became very popular in the United States after World War II.

First Sunday of Advent FAQs

When is First Sunday of Advent?

First Sunday of Advent 2026 falls on Sunday, November 29, marking the official start of the Advent season and the Christian liturgical year.

How long is Advent?

Advent is a four-week season of preparation for Christmas, traditionally observed by Christians worldwide. It begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day.

How many Christians observe Advent?

Advent is a significant observance for the world’s approximately 2.6 billion Christians, particularly those in Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, and many Protestant denominations.

What is the meaning of Advent?

Advent, derived from the Latin ‘adventus’ meaning ‘arrival,’ is a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas.

How to Observe the First Sunday of Advent

Make a wreath
The Advent wreath, or Advent crown, is a Christian tradition that symbolizes the passage of the four weeks of Advent. Make your own wreath, or buy an already made one and light it with candles. Place your wreath anywhere in your home to serve as a symbol of reverence.
Make or buy an Advent calendar
An Advent calendar is a card or poster with 24 small doors, one to be opened each day from December 1 until Christmas Eve. Each door conceals a picture, symbol, or scriptural text. It’s a fun way to usher in the season and makes a great activity to enjoy with loved ones.
Attend a church service
There are usually church services organized on the first Sunday of Advent for the readings and teachings of the season and it’s a great way to learn more about this spiritual period.

5 Facts You Should Know About Advent

Violet is a popular color
Purple represents repentance and fasting, and is the color used for decorations and all other items used during the Advent season.
The third Sunday is for rejoicing
On the third Sunday of Advent, called Gaudete Sunday, Christians take a break from repenting to celebrate Christ’s imminent arrival.
Not all Advent calendars are alike
There are Advent calendars that contain chocolates, LEGO pieces, and even diamonds.
It’s a time for sorrow and joy
During Advent, devout Christians take the time to pray, reflect on the past year, mourn for the sin and evil in the world, or express hope and joy for the Second Coming.
Its start date varies
In most Western churches, Advent begins on the Sunday four weeks before Christmas Day, so it may start at the end of November or the beginning of December depending on the calendar.

Why the First Sunday of Advent is Important

It serves as a new beginning
Advent season marks the start of a new year for Christian churches. A new year is always an opportunity for growth, restoration, and renewal.
It gives people hope
One of the major celebrations of Advent is the birth and Second Coming of Christ. This is a hopeful time in the lives of Christians that paints a better future for the world.
It’s an opportunity for self-reflection
The Advent season is also a time for sobriety and personal reflection. It gives Christians an opportunity to renew their faith and solidify their relationship with God.