Beginning of Advent

Today, the Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands, together with the Catholic Church all over the world, begins the First Sunday of Advent, marking the start of a new Liturgical Year.

Advent is a season of dual preparation. We look back with gratitude as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas, and we look forward with hope to His second coming at the end of time. It is a journey from darkness into light, symbolized by the progressive lighting of the candles on the Advent Wreath.

In our Virgin Islands community, Advent calls us to find moments of stillness and prayer amidst the busy preparations for the holidays. As we light the first candle— the Candle of Hope — we pray that the Lord will find our hearts open and ready to receive Him across St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John.

Liturgical Note: The liturgical color for Advent is Violet (Purple), representing penance, preparation, and sacrifice.

Please consult your local parish bulletin for Advent mission schedules, Penance Service times, and Sunday Mass schedules.