Advent is an important part of our Catholic tradition, and it is also a time that invites people of all backgrounds to slow down and reflect. In the Holy Spirit Catholic School Division, Advent is a season of story, preparation, and connection. Stories shape how we understand the world. They help us appreciate our traditions, our families, and the many experiences that make each school a unique community.
The First Sunday of Advent highlights hope. The first purple candle is a reminder that hope can steady us during busy or uncertain times. In our schools, hope is seen when students encourage one another, set goals, and try again when things are difficult. Hope is part of how we build confidence in our learners.
The Second Sunday of Advent focuses on peace. The second purple candle invites us to think about how we create calm and respectful spaces. Peace shows up in the way students solve problems, the way staff support school routines, and the way we care for one another. Peace helps us create safe, welcoming schools for everyone.
The Third Sunday of Advent centres on joy. This week is marked by the rose candle. Joy can be quiet or energetic, personal or shared. In our division, joy is found in learning, teamwork, friendships, and moments of celebration. When students feel confident, supported, and valued, joy grows.
The Fourth Sunday of Advent leads us to love. The final candle reminds us that love can be shown in many ways. It can be kindness, patience, service, or simple acts of care. In our schools, love is seen in the way staff guide students, the way classmates support one another, and the way communities respond when help is needed.
Throughout the Advent season, the Holy Spirit Catholic School Division will share stories on social media about how students explore these themes in their schools. These posts may feature classroom projects, artwork, community service, or small moments that highlight hope, peace, joy, or love. Our goal is to show how these values are lived out in meaningful ways.
Each week, we will also share questions and activities that families can try at home. These prompts are simple and flexible. They are meant to spark conversations, encourage reflection, and help families explore what these themes mean to them. We welcome families to share their own experiences in our post comments and use the hashtag #hs4Advent in Facebook and Instagram.
When we share our stories, we learn from one another, and we strengthen our sense of community.
Advent invites us to pause, to reflect, and to notice what matters most. We look forward to walking through this season together, and we thank our Holy Spirit Catholic School Division families for the many ways they support our students and staff.