The layered history behind Advent

The Advent season marks a pivotal period in the Christian calendar, serving as a time of preparation before the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth. Tracing back to at least the 4th century, the historical origins of Advent emerge following the establishment of the feast of the Nativity on December 25th.

In the early years, celebrations varied greatly in length and details. Some marked Advent starting on November 11th lasting 40 days, resembling Lenten practices with fasting and abstinence. Others observed a shorter period beginning on December 25th. The number of Sundays in Advent also fluctuated from as many as six down to four over the first few centuries.

By the 6th century, there are clearer signs of an established preparatory season. St Gregory the Great’s homilies include a sermon for the Second Sunday of Advent, representing a growing formal recognition. In the following centuries, the Advent season became more widespread, though still varying in length and details across different regions.

The 40-day fast from November 11th continued in some areas into the 12th century, highlighting Advent’s early connections to penitence and Lenten traditions. Eventually, the season began transitioning its focus more from fasting to solemn preparation, adopting more joyful elements by the 12th century as well.

Specifically, the third Sunday of Advent became known as Gaudete Sunday, meaning “Rejoice” Sunday. On this day, the sombre penitential spirit lightened with expressions of hope and joy coming closer to Christmas.

Richer violet or rose-coloured vestments often replaced the darker Advent purple on Gaudete Sunday. Readings and hymns also transitioned to more uplifting messianic passages, capturing the anticipatory jubilation.

Additionally, regulations on fasting and food abstinence lifted slightly on Gaudete Sunday, allowing celebrations with a festive tone. However, abstinence continued through the fourth week until Christmas, except on Gaudete Sunday. This marked a key developmental shift, balancing Advent’s ancestral reflection and self-denial with growing jubilation toward the coming Saviour’s birth.

The gradual crystallisation of the four-week Advent aligned with these key developments emphasising both preparatory penitence and joyful anticipation. By the 12th century, many of the central customs formalised, resonating still today. Echoes of early austerity intermix with exuberant messianic hope, culminating in Christmas celebrations.

So, while Advent retained its Lenten-associated origins in many ways, the integration of heightened rejoicing by the 12th century also indelibly shaped its enduring identity.

This characterises the season’s evolving nature striking a balance between patient preparation and zealous celebration leading up to Christ’s nativity.