Catholics in many cultures have traditionally prayed the Christmas Novena (nine consecutive days of prayer) from December 16-24. This devotion is centered on our expectation of the Coming King, and helps to prepare us spiritually to receive Him into our hearts.
In the dimly lit setting, priests and faithful prepare to honor the Light of the world, Who is soon to be born, and offer praise to God for the gift of Our Lady.
Fr. Alfred Delp S.J., a German Jesuit priest, philosopher, and member of the Catholic resistance to Nazism has left us a beautiful witness of how to approach the Advent Season