Advent, a season of four Sundays, opens the church year. The season begins on the Sunday closest to St. Andrew's Day, November 30. The observance of Advent originated in France during the fourth century. The duration of the season varied from four to seven weeks until the Bishop of Rome in the sixth century set the season at four weeks. In ancient times Advent was strictly observed: every Christian was required to attend church service and fast daily.

The word, Advent, consists of two Latin words: ad -- venire, "to come to." Advent's message is that God in Christ is coming to the world. This coming may be:

1. A past experience. God did come in Christ at Christmas. The prophets' promise was fulfilled in the Babe.

2. A present experience. God may come to you this Christmas in terms of reb…