Embracing Advent’s Ember Days

Dear Friend,

This week, we observe the Advent Ember Days—a time of prayer, fasting, and thanksgiving that draws us deeper into the season’s spiritual significance. Traditionally held on the Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday after the third Sunday of Advent, these days help us sanctify the changing season and prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming.

What Are Ember Days?

Ember Days are a rich tradition in the Church, reminding us to pause and reflect on God’s blessings in nature and grace. These days are an opportunity to:

• Pray: Seek God’s guidance and offer gratitude for His blessings.

• Fast: Offer sacrifices to grow closer to Christ and intercede for others.

• Give Thanks: Reflect on the gifts of the season, both spiritual and physical.

During Advent, the focus is on preparing our hearts to receive the Christ Child, embracing joy and hope while acknowledging the need for penance.

How to Observe Ember Days in Advent

• Wednesday: Offer prayers of thanksgiving for Christ’s incarnation and God’s blessings in your life. Consider reading and meditating on Luke 1:26-38, the Annunciation, to reflect on Mary’s fiat and her openness to God’s will.

• Friday: Fast and meditate on Christ’s Passion as a reminder of the sacrifice that began with His birth. Pray for those in need, offering your sacrifices for their intentions.

• Saturday: Prepare for the Lord’s coming with acts of charity or service. Spend time in silence, reflecting on how you can better welcome Christ into your life and your family.

Rosary Meditation: A Heart Ready for Christ

As you pray the Rosary this week, meditate on the first mystery of each set to prepare your heart for the Lord:

• Joyful Mysteries (Monday, Thursday & Sunday): The Annunciation reveals Mary’s humble acceptance of God’s will. Reflect on how you can imitate her "yes" to God’s plan in your life.

• Sorrowful Mysteries (Tuesday & Friday): The Agony in the Garden shows Christ’s willingness to surrender to the Father’s will. Offer your struggles to Him, trusting in His grace.

• Glorious Mysteries (Wednesday, Saturday): The Resurrection reminds us of the joy and victory that await those who trust in the Lord. Let this mystery fill you with hope as you prepare for Christmas.

Family Activities: Ember Days in Your Home

Bring the tradition of Ember Days to life with your family through simple yet meaningful practices:

• Create a Gratitude List: Each family member can write down blessings they are thankful for this year. Offer prayers of thanksgiving together.

• Plan a Simple Meal: On Friday, prepare a modest, meatless meal to honor the tradition of fasting. Use this time to talk about the meaning of sacrifice and how it draws us closer to God.

• Service Project Saturday: Choose a family activity that reflects Christ’s love—donate food, visit the sick, or write cards for those in need of encouragement.

Saint Spotlight: St. Thomas the Apostle (Feast Day: December 21)

This week, we honor St. Thomas the Apostle, often called "Doubting Thomas." His feast reminds us of the profound declaration of faith he made upon encountering the risen Christ: “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). As we prepare for Christmas, let us reflect on St. Thomas’s journey from doubt to faith and ask for his intercession to strengthen our own belief in the Lord’s promises.

Friend, the Ember Days are a chance to step back, reflect, and realign our hearts with God’s will. May this week of prayer and penance prepare your heart to receive the joy of Christmas with renewed faith and gratitude.

In Christ and Our Blessed Mother,
Melissa

Quote for Reflection:
"Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths." – Matthew 3:3

P.S.: How does your family observe the Advent season? I’d love to hear your traditions—reply to this email and share!

P.P.S. Due to the number of people interested in the sale this weekend I have decided to extend the sale to Wednesday. Go to my website here and order as many planners as you want for $19.99 off each planner! Use code ThankYou24!, and include the exclamation point,