People don’t know exactly when the celebration began. There’re several disputes concerning the tradition. It was proposed by the Christian Catholic Church. Some religious books admit that the period of Advent was proposed in early 5th century. The period lasted for 6 weeks and began from St. Martin’s Day on November, 11. During the Advent period of those times people had a strong fast. It was a preparatory period for Christmas day. A hundred years later the Catholic Church proposed to reduce that period and cancel the tradition of a fast, though the Orthodox Christians left the tradition of strong fasting before Christmas Eve.
The initial aim of Advent was to prepare body and soul for a great holiday. Most of the things were restricted during the period. Winter fast was comparable with the preparation for Easter day. People also had a great Lent. Nowadays in winter they don’t have so many limitations.
Advent is recognized as one of the real festive tradition. Beginning from the First Sunday of Advent people expect one of the most grandiose events of Christianity. This period is dedicated to preparation for a day. People usually begin looking for Christmas presents for their dearest people and colleagues. They start decorating their houses and thinking over their Christmas vacations and parties.
Catholic Christians pay much attention to decorating their homes. They visit many stores looking for the best Advent wreath which is placed on a dinner table. Another wreath is hung on the front door of each house or flat. The tradition of lighting the candles is followed during the whole period of Advent. The first candle is lighted up during a meal on the First Sunday of Advent. Christians put a new candle every Sunday before Christmas. The worshippers always read Scripture before starting dinner. Families pray together involving their children to the tradition. When is First Sunday of Advent 2019? People can light the first candle of Advent on December, 1.