Advent has a two-fold character: it is a time of preparation for the Solemnities of Christmas, in which the First Coming of the Son of God to humanity is remembered; and likewise when, by remembrance of this, minds and hearts are led to look forward to Christ’s Second Coming at the end of time. For these two reasons, Advent is a period for devout and expectant delight.

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The Liturgy Office for England and Wales has information, prayers and liturgical texts for the Season of Advent.

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Scripture: The first three gospels – Matthew, Mark, and Luke – share many of the same accounts of Christ’s life and ministry, often in the same order and using similar wording. Together they’re known as the synoptic gospels.

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The word ‘synoptic’ comes from the Greek word synoptikos, loosely meaning ‘taking the same or common view’. In Cycle C, the Liturgical Cycle we observe as we enter Advent 2021, the focus falls on St Luke. Our Gospel readings at Sunday Mass are predominantly taken from Luke. You can listen to the whole of St Luke’s Gospel in audio and download additional resources here.

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In 2020, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales (CBCEW) recorded the Gospel of St Mark and released a reading every day for the weekdays of Advent.