A Prayer from our alter with winter jasmine.

Still I trusted, even when I said

“I am greatly afflicted,”

When the Lord gave Zion back her captives, we became like dreamers.

Those who sow in tears will rejoice at the harvest.

They wept as they went, went with seed for the sowing;

but with joy they will come, come bearing the sheaves.

Our mouths were filled with gladness and our voices cried in exultation.

First Sunday of Advent Reflection

We celebrated the first Sunday of advent yesterday. The first purple candle was brought to life upon the wreath and we reflected with prayers together.

Tell the timid to take heart
The Lord God will come,
The Lord will come soon and not delay
God will make the darkest places bright
See, God shall appear,
God shall not decieve,
The Lord will come quickly
Come Lord Jesus, send forth your spirit and renew the face of the earth
Be on watch, stay awake
The Lord is near
Watch with a sharp eye
The Lord is near
Look, all around you, see,
The Lord is near.
Amen

We have started to recite the Saint Andrew Novena. And are preparing our Jesse tree for it's first ornament!

Here are some great links for traditional advent prayers, feastdays and activities from fisheaters website
And here for homeschoolers from Serendipity

Like the bare branches of the trees outside. Our reflections are quiet, still and unembellished.
We unadorn and wait with simplicity. Emptying our heart so that it may make a fitting manger for the child to lay when christmas comes.

Advent Lapbook

This is a wonderful Lapbook for the advent season.

The story of the Christmas Carol " A Partridge in a Pear Tree" includes History, Catechism, Bible study and an Advent Theme perfect for the season.

There is a version for both the older and younger child too!

Print out the twelve days of Christmas lapbook from here.

The Story behind the song "A Partridge in a Pear Tree"

Sharing the quiet here at home...