13.12.2024

Historical Meaning

The term „Advent“ origins from the Latin and means “Arrival”. According to Christian understanding it is the preparation for Christmas when the birth of Jesus Christ and hence the incarnation of God is commemorated. In the early centuries this time was conducted as fasting period and is understood and celebrated by several religious denominations in their Liturgies as a time of reflection, memory and pleasant anticipation until today.

Advent today

The Advent period has built up an enormous economical relevance. The development of presents to the core element of Christmas and their continuously climbing price level made the Christmas business a supporting pillar of entire commercial sectors. Advertisement for fragrances etc. has it’s peak during these weeks.

The German Christmas markets became real economical institutions and internationally famous. In Birmingham in England the German market can’t be imagined being not part of Advent. Mulled wine and “Bratwurst” attract immense crowds.

At the same time all has an impact on attendance in department stores and traffic volume on streets and parking areas. Logistics providers work at capacity during that time.

One gear down?

One can have the impression that in no other period of time as many stressed people are running around, the queues at the cash points appear endless, and to find a friend in the crowd or a parking slot for shopping becomes a challenge.

It’s worth a question if the term “reflection” should be restrengthened to an extent. Reflection in terms of shifting and calming down a bit, reflection in terms of leaning back, reflection in terms of “What’s important and right?” and reflection in terms of “Does everything go accordingly?”, reflection also for recharging batteries.

We wish you a reflective rest of Advent.