Advent 2021: Resources for a Season of Preparation
Welcome to Advent!
We compiled a list of the prayers, events, and other resources that are helping us deepen our prayer and grow closer to God during this season of preparation. Some of these resources are our own, and others are offered by our partners across the Ignatian community.
Advent Audio Reflections
Ignatian Young Adult Ministries
OIS’s Ignatian Young Adult Ministries is offering audio reflections each week during Advent. These short reflections (about 5 minutes each) are here to help you deepen you prayer during this season. They are available to listen or download at IgnatianYoungAdults.org. And sign up to receive these audio reflections each week via email.
Young adults (20’s and 30’s) are also invited to join a small group conversation each week based on the reflections.
Provisions for the Journey to Bethlehem: Brief Reflections on the Daily Scriptures During Advent
Spiritual director Elaine Ireland has written short reflections and points for prayer for the daily readings during Advent.
Each week of Advent has a theme. Week one: God’s people wait in hope and faith. Week two: we focus on words of peace from the Old Testament prophets. Week three is about love and the words of John, the Baptist. Week four: we celebrate joy with Mary, Mother of God. But the overriding theme of Advent is waiting and preparing in hope, a grace so essential, so necessary for the whole world right now. Where do you find hope?
An Advent Playlist
We have put together a short playlist for Advent. Something to help you enter into prayer, or to play in the background while you’re working.
Imagine Advent: Stories Abound
The Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States is offering daily reflections from members of the Ignatian family inviting us to find God in stories, film, art and more!
Advent Examen
Pray this Advent Examen, written by Laurie Marshanke for IgnatianSpirituality.com.
“Begin by taking in a deep breath, taking in God’s love, the light of Christ, the wisdom of the Holy Spirit. Exhale all your worries, your challenges, and your fears. During this time of Advent let us reflect on what we can do to prepare for the Lord.”
Advent Simplicity Challenge
Take the Advent Simplicity Challenge from the Ignatian Solidarity Network. “In a season that can mistakenly be focused on gifts and consumption, explore ways to live simply as we hopefully prepare for the coming of Jesus and the restoration of the earth.”