#AdventWord 2019

For the past six years, #AdventWord has given the opportunity to participate in a global advent calendar with visual and written meditations. Each day, a short reflection, word, and image arrives in email inboxes and on social media to help focus on the preparatory season during the 24 busy days of Advent.   

#AdventWord + Storytelling  

Personal stories are a way of sharing the importance of our extended family and the legacy of those saints that have come before us. The #AdventWord daily word could be a jumping off point to describe a favorite Bible story or family tree legend. A great way to share values and make sure those important stories get passed along. 

#AdventWord Doodles and Paper Chain  

Sybil Macbeth from Praying in Color has two amazing prayer-related coloring activities. The first is a paper chain, where the daily word can be decorated and then added, creating a longer chain as each day goes by. Sounds perfect for an Advent tree!  

The second idea is Sybil’s Advent Calendar that leaves blank space for each of the days. Her examples are an inspiration to how we can meditate and pause.  

Using an Advent Spotify playlist would also be a way to set the mood for this household activity! This year I’m already enjoying this “Advent: An Art and Theology Playlist” by Victoria Emily Jones. 

#AdventWord Reverse Advent Calendar 

Many churches ask their congregation to do a reverse Advent calendar for a local food pantry or shelter. It could be canned goods, socks, or other non-perishable items. Pairing the act of giving something away in combination with family prayers and the #AdventWord meditation gives the opportunity to reflect on Christ’s coming into the world.  

Image Credit: Sarah Cowan

Other suggestions include using the past year’s family photos to be combined #AdventWord visual reflection or having everyone draw their interpretation of the daily word. The Advent collects in the Book of Common Prayer are also a way to ground the family during the week with the Sunday prayers. 

How will your household pause and reflect in the Advent season?