As December approaches, Christian communities around the world enter one of the most beloved and meaningful seasons of the year: Advent. As a former Protestant pastor and now Catholic, my Advent worship style has changed dramatically. In some protestant churches, I have pastors who aren’t fussed about celebrating Advent and skip it altogether.

For many Christians today, Advent is just a run-up to Christmas. But among some Protestants, they take Advent very seriously.

While both Catholics and Protestants celebrate Advent, their customs, symbolism, and liturgical approaches can vary in beautiful and fascinating ways. Here’s a clear, accessible guide to what sets these traditions apart and what they share in common.

What Is Advent?

The word Advent comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival.”
For both Catholics and many Protestant groups, Advent is a four-week season of:

• Expectation
• Preparation
• Reflection
• Hope

It looks back to the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem and forward to His promised return.

Advent always begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, though how the season unfolds after that differs by tradition.

Shared Symbol: The Advent Wreath

One of the most recognisable Advent symbols is the Advent wreath. The wreath appears in both Catholic and Protestant communities.
But the candles on that wreath often carry different meanings.

Catholic Candle Meanings

Catholic tradition typically assigns these themes:

• Week 1: Hope
• Week 2: Peace
• Week 3: Joy (Gaudete Sunday)
• Week 4: Love

The candle colours reflect the liturgical seasons:

• Three purple candles (penitential colour)
• One rose candle (for Joy)

Protestant Candle Meanings

Protestant churches have more variation.
You may see themes like:

• Hope, Peace, Joy, Love
• Prophecy, Bethlehem, Shepherds, Angels
• Faith, Hope, Joy, Love

Colours can be purple, blue, pink, or occasionally all white.
In some congregations, a Christ Candle in the centre is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

Liturgy: Structured vs. Flexible

Catholic Advent Liturgy

Catholic churches follow a universal liturgical calendar.
Scripture readings during Advent emphasise:

• Prophecies of the Messiah
• John the Baptist’s call to repentance
• The Virgin Mary’s role in salvation history
• The tension between waiting and hope

Mass remains more solemn during these weeks. The “Gloria” is often omitted as a sign of anticipation.

Protestant Advent Liturgy

Protestant practices vary widely.
Some denominations, such as Anglicans, Lutherans, and Methodists, follow the Revised Common Lectionary, which closely mirrors Catholic readings.

Others, such as many Baptists, non-denominational churches, and evangelical congregations, choose their own themes or sermon series.
This flexibility means every Protestant Advent can look a little different from the last.

Music: Strict vs. Joyful Early

Catholic Tradition

Catholic churches are generally cautious about singing Christmas carols too early.
Instead, they focus on true Advent hymns such as:

• “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”
• “Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus”

Christmas music is reserved for Christmas Eve and the start of the Christmas season.

Protestant Tradition

Many Protestant churches follow similar restraint…
But many others break out “Joy to the World” right after Thanksgiving.

If you’ve ever heard Christmas carols in church before December even begins, chances are you were in a Protestant congregation!

Decorations: Minimal vs. Mixed

Catholic Churches

During Advent, Catholic sanctuaries tend to be:

• Simple
• Restrained
• Waiting

Nativity scenes are often displayed empty—baby Jesus appears only on Christmas Eve.

Protestant Churches

Decoration styles vary dramatically:

• Some remain simple and reflective.
• Others transform into full holiday displays by early December.
• Many put up the entire Nativity scene immediately.

The variety can make visiting different Protestant churches during Advent a unique experience each time.

Spiritual Focus

Catholic Emphasis: Penance & Preparation

Advent in the Catholic tradition carries a “mini-Lent” character.
Themes include:

• Repentance
• Spiritual preparation
• Self-examination
• Quiet reflection

Some Catholics take on small Advent practices, such as fasting or increased prayer.

Protestant Emphasis: Hope & Anticipation

While some Protestant traditions recognise the penitential aspect, the overall focus often leans toward:

• Joy
• Expectation
• The story of Christ’s birth
• Community gatherings
• Charitable acts

The tone is typically lighter, but still spiritually intentional.

The Final Days: Christmas Begins (or Ends?)

Catholic Tradition

Advent ends at sunset on December 24th.
This marks the beginning of the Christmas season, which lasts 12 days until Epiphany. Sometimes even longer, depending on local practice.

Protestant Tradition

Many Protestant churches celebrate:

• Christmas Eve service
• Christmas Day worship (sometimes optional)

How long “Christmas” lasts afterwards varies widely.
Some maintain the traditional 12 days; others conclude the season on December 26.

Different Traditions, Same Hope

While Catholics and Protestants approach Advent differently—through liturgy, music, candles, and customs—the heart of the season remains remarkably similar:

• Waiting for Christ
• Preparing the heart
• Celebrating hope

These shared themes unite Christians across denominations and centuries, enriching the spiritual journey toward Christmas.

Happy Advent Everybody!

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