This season is often called “Advent.” Have you ever wondered what “advent” means? It comes from the Latin word adventus meaning “coming.” It refers to the arrival of a notable person, thing or event. A more specialized meaning of Advent is the first season of the Christian year, including the first four Sundays preceding Christmas. Traditionally, this is a time of waiting expectantly and joyfully for the coming of the Messiah, the Son of God, celebrating his first advent and anticipating his second advent.