The fourth light of Advent is the light of man,

in love and in God, to give and understand.

We have entered into the season of Advent. Traditionally celebrated the four Sundays before the winter solstice, it marks a time of introspection as we all await the return of the sun and lengthening days. This seasonal remembrance of light takes place in many cultures across the globe. At our Waldorf school, we celebrate with Advent spiral walks and Advent tables.

An Advent table may be a tradition to take into your own homes to mark this season of darkness turning towards light. Each week items are added to a small table and an additional candle is lit, taking a quiet moment to celebrate and recognize the strength and beauty of the natural world around us. By remembering the light surrounding us in nature, we are helped to kindle a sustaining light within to help us through the dark days of winter.

Here are some ideas on how to incorporate an Advent table into your winter celebrations:

As the verse above guides, in the first week of Advent, we remember the light of the mineral world, of the earth, and our connection to it. Perhaps you can plan a hike together or visit a quiet winter beach, so different than in the exuberant summer, collecting stones to add to your Advent table.

The second week of Advent we honor the plants that nourish both our bodies and our spirits.  This is a great time to remember the food growers and preparers, and add some winter boughs or fall leaves to your Advent table.

The third week of Advent we celebrate the animal kingdom for their companionship.  We can remember to help our backyard companions through their own difficult winter with full bird feeders and treats for the squirrels, and add a small animal figure to your Advent table.

Finally, in the fourth week of Advent we remember our fellow humans.  We can reflect on the special people in our lives who may have helped light the path for us in their own way.  Perhaps we can find a way to be a light in someone else’s life this week, and add a little figure to your Advent table.

By marking our seasonal journey out of darkness with the quiet contemplation of an Advent, we make space in this hectic time of celebration and busyness to remember our connection to the earth and each other. In this way, we kindle the light of our own spirits and perhaps help light the way for others.