When Does Advent Begin and End?

According to the General Norms (No. 40): Advent begins with Evening Prayer I of the Sunday falling on or closest to 30 November and ends before Evening Prayer I of Christmas. The Sunday on or closest to Nov. 30 can range between Nov. 27 and Dec. 3, depending on the year. In the case of a Sunday, Evening Prayer I is said on the evening of the preceding day (Saturday). This means that Advent begins on the evening of a Saturday falling between Nov. 26 and Dec. 2 (inclusive), and it ends on the evening of Dec. 24, which holds Evening Prayer I of Christmas (Dec. 25).

 What Is the Role of Sundays in Advent?

There are four Sundays of Advent. The General Norms (No. 41) state: The Sundays of this season are named the First, Second, Third, and Fourth Sundays of Advent. The Third Sunday of Advent has a special name — Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete is the Latin word for “Rejoice,” which is the first word of the introit of the Mass for this day. The Church ascribes particular importance to these Sundays, and they take precedence over other liturgical celebrations. Because of its special importance, the Sunday celebration gives way only to solemnities or feasts of the Lord. The Sundays of the seasons of Advent, Lent, and Easter, however, take precedence over all solemnities and feasts of the Lord. Solemnities occurring on these Sundays are observed on the Saturdays preceding.

How Are Churches Decorated During Advent?

The General Instruction of the Roman Missal notes: During Advent, the floral decoration of the altar should be marked by a moderation suited to the character of this time of year, without expressing in anticipation the full joy of the Nativity of the Lord. During Lent, it is forbidden for the altar to be decorated with flowers. Exceptions, however, are Laetare Sunday (the Fourth Sunday of Lent), Solemnities, and Feasts.