Today marks the first Sunday of Advent. Advent means the 'coming' of the messiah or savior. Advent consist of 4 weeks. This week is the week of HOPE. During Advent, one should always attempt to go through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, or simply, Confession. So as we prepare for the coming of the lord, we recall our sins and ask his mercy. So how are we going to prepare for Christmas during this Advent? Its definitely not about presents. I guess since the movie,"The Nativity Story", is releasing soon, we should all go and watch that movie and realize the true meaning of Christmas. This is a period of giving, a period where we move closer to God. We should be acting like Mother Theresa of Calcutta. She sees every person as Jesus Christ himself. Advent represents Expectation, Purification, or Penance. Kyrie Eleison