Advent: 4 interesting facts about the season of waiting
Early Church origins
The exact origins of Advent are hard to determine, according to Ryan Reeves, associate professor of historical theology at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, in a 2018 piece for The Gospel Coalition.
“Advent almost certainly arose as a result of the fixed dating of Christmas,” wrote Reeves. “Once Dec. 25 became Christmas, it was the center of gravity for the later half of the year — a perfect balance to Easter in the first half.”
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The earliest written evidence of the Advent observance comes from the fourth century, with firmer dating for the liturgical season being found in the fifth and sixth centuries.
“Unlike modern Advent ceremonies, most celebrations of Advent in history had a twin focus. The Latin word adventus was the translation of the Greek parousia — a word used for both the coming of Christ in human flesh and his Second Coming,” added Reeves.
“For the first two weeks of Advent, the church would reflect on the Second Coming. Disciples would chasten their hearts, confess sins, and spend time hoping for the quick coming of the Lord. The last two weeks of Advent would then transition to focus on the first parousia, Christ in the manger.”
