Advent (Hisnag), 50 days counted back from Christmas celebrated on January 6, is a time to prepare ourselves for the arrival of our Lord Jesus Christ. Similarly to the 40 day Lenten period in preparation for Easter, a unique set of Gospels are read on the six Sundays in the Armenian Church.

These are essential readings to reflect on our Christian walk to remind us how God wants us to share the goodness of His provision in our lives.

All the Gospels come from the Book of St Luke and the message from each talks about our response to Christ, specifically how we respond to those in need identified by Christ – the poor, the meek, the needy. We are also reminded of the foolishness of attaching too much importance to wealth, how faith must bear fruit and warned about excuses, idleness and pride.

THE SUNDAYS OF ADVENT
1st Sunday:   Luke 12:13-31 – The Parable of the Rich Fool
2nd Sunday: Luke 13:1-9 – Jesus Calls People to Repent or Perish
3rd Sunday:  Luke 14:12-24 – The Parable of the Great Feast
4th Sunday:  Luke 17:1-10 – Jesus Tells About Forgiveness and Faith
5th Sunday:  Luke 18:9-14 – The Parable of the Two Men Who Prayed
6th Sunday:  Luke 19:12-28 – The Parable of the King’s Ten Servants