Advent prayer and meditation resources to deepen your anticipation of Christmas

If you are like us, you are deep into preparations for Christmas. As you decorate the tree, sign and read Christmas cards, and review your gift lists, please take a little time to prepare yourself spiritually too.

We’ve compiled a set of Advent meditations and prayers that the Renewal Center team has put together of the last couple of years. Some are videos, some are written meditations. All will help you celebrate this season and deepen your longing for the Incarnation.

Christmas and Depression, an Assembling God’s Puzzle video

By Fr. Garry Richmeier, CPPS.

Christmas — the most wonderful time of the year? Our culture tells us it is. But according to mental health agencies and therapists, more people report feeling depressed at Christmas time than almost any other time of the year. Why is that? Watch the Video.

 

Taizé for December: Mary Speaks to Juan Diego

The story of the origin of the miraculous image of Our Lady of Guadalupe is well known. Juan Diego was a quiet, humble man, a poor peasant. Our Lady spoke to Juan Diego in his own language, with an appearance that reflected the indigenous people and their culture. Watch the Video.

Encounters of the Fourth Kind: Intro and Advent

By Fr. Ron Will, CPPS.

This new video series explores up close and personal encounters between humans and the spiritual. During Advent, we think about Mary who had an angel tell her that she was to be the mother of the Son of God. That was an encounter of the fourth kind. Watch the Video.

 

How to cope with crazy holiday gatherings, an Assembling God’s Puzzle video

By Fr. Garry Richmeier, CPPS.

Holiday family gatherings can sometimes be challenging to navigate. Here are a few strategies to help you cope with family situations you might find yourself in this holiday season. Watch the Video.

 

Advent Through the Eyes of St. Joseph

December 13, 2021
Presented by Fr. Ron Will
On this Advent Day of Prayer, we will contemplate the experience of God being born into human flesh as Jesus of Nazareth, looking at the experience through the eyes of St. Joseph, his foster father. Watch the Video.

Taizé for December: Advent Anticipation

December 3, 2021
We gather in December around an Advent Wreath in anticipation of the Incarnation, of God entering the world and our lives. Rays of light from the wreath’s candles encircle us and those we love. Watch the Video.

Video Practice: Journaling and Welcoming Jesus

December 13, 2021
By Kathy Keary
As we warmly welcome Jesus into our lives, we will put pen to paper to express all that is stirring within. Watch the Video.

Advent Meditation Finding Hope in Uncertainty

December 1, 2020
“Finding Hope in Uncertainty” is an Advent meditation hosted by Precious Blood Renewal Center that uses scripture, spoken word and song to guide you on the Nativity journey of Mary and Joseph. Watch the Video.

Our Challenge: Finding Hope in Uncertainty Part 1

November 23, 2020
By Kathy Keary
Activities that keep my mind focused on the present moment are lifesavers that not only relieve my mind of worries but seem to have a long-lasting calming effect and have increased my propensity to remain in the present moment. Follow the Meditation.

Mary’s Challenge: Finding Hope in Uncertainty Part 2

November 30, 2020
By Kathy Keary
Here I present a guided mediation for Advent, this one based on the Announcement of the Birth of Jesus. You are invited to use your imagination as you enter into the mind and heart of Mary. Follow the Meditation.

St. Joseph’s Challenge: Finding Hope in Uncertainty Part 3

December 7, 2020
By Kathy Keary
St. Joseph was challenged with uncertainty. As we conclude our Advent series, you are invited to use your imagination to walk in the shoes of Joseph. Allow Joseph’s story to speak to you. Follow the Meditation.

Video Practice: Visio Divina: The Peaceable Kingdom

December 6, 2021
By Kathy Keary
In Visio Divina, art becomes the sacrament that opens our hearts to the indwelling Spirit of God. The visible makes the invisible present in a palpable way. Watch the Video.