The first Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of the

liturgical year.

During Advent, the altar is draped in white cloth.

Isaiah foretold of Jesus’ coming.

Isaiah compared Jesus’ coming to a bud growing from the

stump of Jesse, who was Ruth’s father.

Jesse trees honor the people of faith in the Old Testament

who waited for the Messiah.

A Jesse tree is decorated with symbols from the Bible.

Mary, Joseph, and Jesus appear near the top of a Jesse tree.

Advent is a time of sadness.

God’s people are those who were born thousands of years

before Jesus’ birth.

We learn about God’s people as they await the Savior in the

Old Testament.

We learn in the Book of Genesis about how God’s promise

was accomplished when Mary said yes to God.

The story of Ruth and Naomi illustrates the importance of

loyalty.

During Advent, the priest wears violet vestments.

Jesus will return to us when his Chosen People all reach

heaven.