Advent 2024 Prayers & Resources

Advent 2024 Ideas to prepare spiritually for Christmas from Gill Tayleur

Advent marks the beginning of the church year. It is a time for reflection in darkness, for renewal of hope and for a movement towards a beginning.

The season of Advent, as it first emerged in the Church in the fourth and fifth centuries, lasted, like Lent, for 40 days. Later tradition developed the Advent we know today, of four Sundays before Christmas Day. 

It is a season of expectation and preparation as the Church prepares to celebrate the coming of Christ in his incarnation, and also looks ahead to his final advent as judge at the end of time. 

Advent falls at the darkest time of the year, and the natural symbols of darkness and light are powerfully at work throughout Advent and Christmas. 

Lord Jesus, Light of light, you have come among us. 
Help us who live by your light to shine as lights in your world. 
Glory to God in the highest. Amen. 

Short Advent Prayers

• Lord Jesus, as we enter this Advent season, help us cling to the hope You bring. In a world that feels heavy with need, remind us of Your promise to come again and make all things new. Let our hearts be filled with the light of Your presence, leading us closer to You each day. Amen.
• Prince of Peace, settle our hearts in this season of waiting. Where there is tension or fear, bring Your calming presence. May Your peace fill our lives, our homes, and our relationships, drawing us together in unity and love. Amen.
• God of joy, let us rediscover the wonder of Your love this Advent. Help us to rejoice not just in the gifts we receive, but in the gift of Your Son. May our hearts overflow with gratitude and joy as we look forward to celebrating Your birth. Amen.
• Father, as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Your Son, fill us with Your perfect love. Teach us to see others as You see them, to reach out in kindness, and to share the gift of Your love with those around us. Help us to live in a way that reflects Your heart for the world. Amen.

Daily devotions to your phone from the Church of England

1 hour with God – suggestions of how to pray for 1 hour by breaking it up into 5 minute sections

Online Advent calendar for families (or young at heart perhaps)

TEAR fund Advent: “Sign up to receive prayers and hope-filled stories of transformation direct to your email inbox this Advent”

Advent devotional books