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The tradition of Advent, originating from the Latin word "adventus" meaning "coming," is a season observed in many Christian churches as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for both the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas and the return of Jesus at the Second Coming. The Advent season lasts for four Sundays leading up to Christmas.
The Fourth Advent Sunday, which falls on the last Sunday before Christmas, marks the final period of preparation before the celebration of the birth of Christ. It is a significant day in German tradition, where Advent is widely celebrated.
In Germany, Advent is associated with various customs such as the Adventskranz (Advent wreath). This wreath typically has four candles, one for each Sunday of Advent. On each Sunday, a new candle is lit with the fourth candle being lit on the Fourth Advent Sunday. By this time, all four candles are alight signifying that Christmas is very near.
On Fourth Advent Sunday in Germany:
Advent Wreath: Families gather to light the fourth and final candle on their Advent wreaths.
Preparations: Many people use this day to finalize their Christmas preparations. This can include wrapping gifts, baking traditional German Christmas cookies (such as Lebkuchen or Plätzchen), and decorating their homes.
Church Services: Some attend special church services that focus on themes of anticipation and reflection before Christmas Day.
Family Time: It's a time for family gatherings and spending time together often around an advent wreath or working on last-minute decorations.
Christmas Markets: In non-pandemic times, people might visit Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) which are still open on this day for festive foods, drinks, and buying handicrafts.
The Fourth Advent Sunday serves as an important reminder that the time of waiting is almost over and adds to the growing excitement for Christmas among those who observe it in Germany.
