Advent vs. Lent

Both Advent and Lent are seasons of preparation and penance in the Catholic Church, marked by the color purple (violet). However, they have distinct focuses and spiritual moods.

Advent: Waiting for the Light

Duration: Starts four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. Focus: The "Coming" of Christ (Adventus). It has a threefold meaning:

1. Remembrance of His first coming at Bethlehem.
2. Preparation for His Second Coming at the end of time.
3. Welcoming Him into our hearts daily.

Mood: Hopeful expectation. While penitential, it is filled with the joy of anticipation. We sing "Alleluia" (unlike Lent). The third Sunday is marked by Rose (Gaudete Sunday), signifying joy is near.

Lent: Journey to the Cross

Duration: 40 days, from Ash Wednesday to Holy Thursday (excluding Sundays). Focus: Repentance, conversion, and preparation for the Passion and Resurrection. It models Jesus' 40 days in the desert.

Mood: Somber reflection and purification.

• Fasting: Required on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.
• Abstinence: No meat on Fridays.
• Almsgiving: Increased charity.
• Prayer: Intensified spiritual life.

The "Alleluia" and "Gloria" are omitted. The fourth Sunday is Rose (Laetare Sunday).

Key Differences Table

| Feature | Advent | Lent | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Color | Purple (Violet) | Purple (Violet) | | Duration | ~4 weeks | 40 Days | | Alleluia? | Yes | No | | Gloria? | No | No | | Focus | Hope & Expectation | Penance & Repentance | | Ends with | Christmas | Easter (Triduum) |

How to Live Them

• Advent: Light an Advent wreath, pray the St. Andrew Novena, set up a Nativity scene slowly.
• Lent: Go to Confession, pray the Stations of the Cross, give up a comfort, take on a new prayer habit (like the Rosary).