Advent Prayer Service

Advent is a special time in the Church. It is when we prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus. During these weeks, we light candles, offer prayers, and think about how Jesus brings hope and joy. This season helps us focus on the coming of Christ, both at Christmas and at the end of time.

A simple family prayer service can be a good way to celebrate Advent. It doesn’t have to be long or complicated, especially if young children are involved. The goal is to gather together, pray, and think about the meaning of the season. Everyone in the family can participate.

This prayer service begins with a reading from the prophet Isaiah. Isaiah spoke of the coming of a Savior. It reminds us of the hope that Jesus brings. The service also includes petitions. Each person in the family can offer a special prayer for others or themselves.

The service ends with a traditional Hail Mary prayer. This reminds us of Mary’s important role in the story of Jesus’ birth. As we pray together, we ask Jesus to come into our hearts and bring His peace.

This Advent Prayer Service is rooted in Scripture and Catholic teaching. It brings biblical themes to life, like waiting, hope, and God’s promise to save His people. Isaiah’s prophecy about Jesus, the “Prince of Peace,” reminds us that God’s love is always present. This helps children understand that Advent is not just about waiting for Christmas, but about preparing our hearts for Jesus.

In catechesis, the themes of Advent are important. They show God’s faithfulness and His plan to save us. This service gives families a way to talk about these themes at home. It helps children understand that God’s love and mercy are meant for everyone. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: “When the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year, she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah, for by sharing in the long preparation for the Savior’s first coming, the faithful renew their ardent desire for his second coming” (CCC 524). This service supports this teaching by encouraging active waiting and prayer.

In youth ministry, this prayer service encourages children to participate in faith together. It builds a sense of community. By offering their own petitions, children learn to care for others and to listen to their hearts. It’s a simple way to make prayer meaningful, showing that God listens and cares about their needs.

In Isaiah chapter 9 we hear

 For a son has been born for us, a son has been given to us, and dominion has been laid on his shoulders; and this is the name he has been given, Wonder-Counselor, Mighty-God, Eternal-Father, Prince-of-Peace

Lord Jesus, we ask you to prepare us during this holy Advent season as we get ready for your arrival.  We look forward to the peace and joy you bring into our world. Help us to keep focused on your love and grace during this season.

With this in mind, we ask that you hear our petitions. Please reply “Come into our hearts Lord Jesus” to each petition.

(Each family member offers one or more petitions. Each petition is concluded with “Lord hear our prayer” to which everyone responds “Come into our hearts Lord Jesus”.)

Let us conclude our prayer service with a Hail Mary:

Hail Mary,
full of grace,
the Lord is with thee;
blessed art thou amongst women,
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.

More Advent Resources

Advent is a season of preparation for Christmas. It starts four Sundays before Christmas. During Advent, we remember the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem and also prepare for His second coming. It is a time to focus on Jesus and clear away distractions. This can be hard with all the holiday busyness, but Advent helps us focus on what matters.

We do this through prayer and acts of charity, drawing closer to God and sharing His love with others. The color purple is used in church, symbolizing preparation, but changes to rose on Gaudete Sunday, which reflects joy as Christmas nears.

See more Advent ideas here.

More Catholic Prayers

If you are looking for more prayers, visit the Catholic Prayers page on our site. You will find a variety of prayers for all occasions, including daily prayers, prayers for special seasons like Advent, and more. The Advent Prayer Service is just one of the prayers listed there. These prayers can help you and your family grow closer to God throughout the year. Praying together can be a meaningful way to share your faith at home. To explore more, go to Catholic Prayers.

What is the Advent Prayer Service?

The Advent Prayer Service is a simple prayer gathering for families during the Advent season. It includes Scripture reading, prayer petitions, and traditional prayers like the Hail Mary. It helps prepare our hearts for Jesus’ coming at Christmas.

How long does the Advent Prayer Service take?

It usually takes about 10-15 minutes, making it short enough for young children to stay focused. You can adjust the time by adding or shortening the number of petitions.

Who can participate in the Advent Prayer Service?

The Advent Prayer Service is for everyone. Family members of all ages can join, from young children to grandparents. Each person can share a prayer petition or simply join in the responses.

When should we do the Advent Prayer Service?

The Advent Prayer Service can be done anytime during Advent. It works well in the evening or on Sundays. You can choose a time that fits your family’s schedule.

What materials do we need for the Advent Prayer Service?

You need a Bible to read the Scripture passage from Isaiah. If possible, light an Advent wreath candle as a symbol of the season. The rest of the service only requires your hearts and voices.

How does the Advent Prayer Service help us prepare for Christmas?

It helps us focus on Jesus’ coming and reminds us of His love and peace. Praying together as a family brings joy and helps us keep Jesus at the center of the season.

The Advent Prayer Service is a simple way for families to prepare for Christmas together. It begins with a Bible reading from Isaiah that speaks about the coming of Jesus, the “Prince of Peace.” This sets the tone for the prayer time, focusing on the hope and joy of Christ’s birth.

During the service, each family member can share prayer petitions. The group responds with “Come into our hearts, Lord Jesus.” This helps everyone participate and think about what they hope for during Advent. It’s a good way to encourage children to pray.

The service ends with the Hail Mary, asking for Mary’s help as we wait for Jesus. The Advent Prayer Service encourages prayer, builds family unity, and helps keep the true meaning of Advent at the center of this busy season.

Try the Advent Prayer Service with your family! It’s a wonderful way to focus on Jesus during Advent. Let us know how it goes by leaving a comment below. Did the children enjoy it? Did it help your family pray together? We want to hear your experiences! Share what worked best or any ideas you have to make it meaningful for others.