Advent is ‘the final countdown’ to Christmas Day and many children will have an Advent calendar to help them count the days. It’s also a really special time for the church. This year Advent starts on Sunday December 3rd.

Here’s more about why it’s so special, and some Advent activities for children.

The words Advent simply means ‘coming’ – it’s the season when Christians remember that God came to earth to be born as the Christ child, Jesus. God also promised that Jesus will come again at the end of time to heal all the world’s hurts and divisions. Advent remembers this amazing promise, so it’s a time of hope, of getting ready, and expectation. Waiting is hard, but Christmas is worth waiting for – it’s a special time, and at its heart is a gift of love from God to the world.

Read more about what can happen in church and at home during Advent at Countdown to Christmas – all about Advent.