The Syncretic Idealist
The local Big Media newspaper has working for them a religion writer named Eileen Flynn. I really enjoy her stuff, when I happen to come across it, including her very interesting and ecumenical advocacy of celebrating the Advent at their site today:
Advent derives from the Latin word for “coming” and marks the beginning of the liturgical year. Some have said the four weeks represent the 4,000 years of darkness that preceded the birth of Jesus. Some say the Advent wreath is based on a pre-Christian fire wheel. The point is that Advent provides Christians the chance to start anew, to adjust their lives for the coming of the Christ child. Liturgically, the Christmas season begins Dec. 25.
I’m finding more and more Christians embracing Advent traditions. Converts to Catholicism, mainline Protestants, even nondenominational folks who long for rituals to deepen their spiritual lives are making a point to slow down and savor these weeks.
Sounds good to me, even if I don’t need to participate in those particular observances. I’m just happy that others still feel that they have some claim on those ancient rites. It strengthens the backbone against degeneracy and Islamofascism.
Check out her post. It’s got lots of interesting ideas.
Do it for Baby Jesus.
