Catholics mark start of Advent with wreath lightings, prayer, and service

The Advent season has begun, and Catholics across the Archdiocese of Newark are observing this time of spiritual preparation with prayer, reflection, and community gatherings. From the solemn lighting of Advent wreaths to joyful caroling, parishes and Catholic schools are embracing the season in anticipation of Christmas.

Here’s how Catholics in the archdiocese are preparing for Christmas through faith and service.

The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart held their annual Navidad Latina with children dressed as Mary, Joseph, the Three Wise Men, and angels processed down the aisles to form a Nativity scene, bringing the Christmas story to life.

Saint Patrick’s Pro-Cathedral, Newark

Advent began at St. Paul Church in Ramsey with a 3-day mission led by the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal. (St. Paul Church, Ramsey)

A boy smiles at the camera, standing in front of the Advent wreath at Saint Joseph’s Parish in Lodi.

Bishop Elias R. Lorenzo, O.S.B., celebrated Mass at Divine Mercy Parish in Rahway, asking the catechetical program children, “What paths can we make for the Lord?”

The Church of the Little Flower in Berkeley Heights hosted “Christmas is Calling You Home,” an event where attendees immersed themselves in the spirit of Christmas through inspiring songs and scripture.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, Wallington

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Oratory in Montclair celebrated the season of Advent by welcoming families to create their own Nativity scenes.

The Religious Education students of the Holy Name of Jesus Church in East Orange made Advent wreaths for their families.

Notre Dame Church in Caldwell began Advent with a Family Advent Festival, where Fr. Marcin blessed the Advent wreaths made by families.

Volunteers at the Church of the Presentation came together to set up the manger, getting everything ready to begin the Advent season!

St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Hackensack

Our Lady of Victories Church, Jersey City

The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal hosted an Advent retreat for students at Academy of St. Paul in Ramsey.

Families celebrated the lighting of the Advent wreath at the Academy of Our Lady in Fairview.

Students at St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City kicked off the Advent season with a reconciliation service.

Students at Or Lady of the Lake School in Verona started off their Advent observances with a service day, building sandwiches which they donated to St. John’s Soup Kitchen in Newark.

Students at St. Joseph Regional High School in Oradell attended adoration on the first Monday of Advent.

Students and parents at Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child in Summit gathered for an Advent prayer service.

Kindergarten students at Christ the Teacher Academy in Fort Lee celebrated Advent by making Advent wreaths during art class.

Students in the 5th grade at The Academy of Our Lady of Peace in New Providence created Advent wreaths.

Families gathered at St. Bartholomew Academy to celebrate Advent during Family Night.

Students from Mother Seton Regional High School marked the beginning of the Advent season by singing carols for the Rosary Society at Church of the Assumption in Rochelle Park.

Students attended an Advent service at Academy of the Holy Angels in Demarest. The service theme was “pilgrims of hope” in connection with the Year of Jubilee in 2025. The theme was announced by Pope Francis, who also encouraged the faithful to pray for peace.