The word Advent comes from the Latin word “adventus,” which means “coming” or “visit.” Advent includes the four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. During Advent, we start our journey to Bethlehem to prepare our hearts and minds for celebrating Jesus’ birth at Christmas. We remember our longing for and need of forgiveness and salvation. It is the season of hope as we anticipate the celebration of Jesus’ birthday on Christmas Day!