Read the Advent message by Right Rev Fakaofo Kaio, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand below and download it here.
Prepare Yourself
Advent is the season of preparation; when Christians get ready, focus, and plan in anticipation for Christmas. This year may be very different from any other Christmas due to Covid-19. Preparation is the keyword.
Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, this year 29 November. We, the Church, recall our hopes and expectancy in the comings of Christ - past, present, and future. Christmas will always be Christmas. That magical day when we celebrate the Baby of Bethlehem.
Whether it be in the snow of the Northern Hemisphere or be in the warm summer of the Southern hemisphere, it is a wonderful season of hope, love, peace, and joy. Let’s be prepared in mind, heart, and attitude. Let’s be prepared for whatever coronavirus restrictions we may face.
This is a wonderful season for each one of us to strive to clear the deck. Remove any unnecessary baggage that has accumulated over the year. Prepare yourself for the baby of Christmas, Jesus.
Fakaofo
Right Rev Fakaofo Kaio
Moderator
Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand
Image: Hugo van der Goes, detail from the Portinari Altarpiece, c. 1475, oil on wood