Advent is an important part of the Christian calendar. It means ‘coming’ and it’s the period before Christmas which celebrates the birth of Christ. It’s a season of giving and receiving. As we enter this annual period of exchanging of gifts, BETTY AMUKPO converses with some children on involving others in the Advent tradition of giving. Excerpts:
‘I’ll visit the Orphanage Home’ ‘
Advent is the season when we prepare and await the coming of God as a Child. Advent is about giving, because God gave us His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ (John 3:16). I’ll visit the Orphanage Home within my axis to gift and spend time with the children over there. I’ll encourage my parents to take part in our Parish gifting to the poor and less fortunate. I’ll give out my unused clothes to the children on my street that need them more than I do. Let’s cultivate the habit of generosity, because in being charitable we are doing it to Christ Himself (Matthew 25:40).
• Agbo Josephine
‘Encourage others to help the needy, share meals, donate gifts’
“I will involve others in Advent tradition of giving by encouraging them to help the needy, share meals, and donate gifts. Jesus said, ‘Give, and it will be given to you’ (Luke 6:38). ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ (Acts 20:35), and ‘God loves a cheerful giver’ (2 Corinthians 9:7).”
• Ogoke Chimamanda Anthonia
‘I’ll encourage my family to visit the less privileged children’
As Catholics, we believe Advent is a holy season and a time to remember those who are less fortunate. Advent is about giving, rather than receiving. We give, because God first freely gave to us. He held nothing back! He gave us His most precious gift – His only Son (John 3:16). During this period, I’ll gather unused toys and items that are still in good condition and seek the consent of my parents to give them out. I’ll encourage my family to make plans to visit the less privileged children, especially the orphanage home to give gifts and spend time with the children. Lastly, I’ll pray for those children who have no one to gift them, that God will console them in ways beyond imaginations. God is love and he wants us to love as he first loved us.
• Patricia Oche
‘Organise community service project’
The Advent season is a time of preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s a period of reflection, prayer, and giving. As Christians, we’re called to share the true spirit of Christmas with others. In 1 John 3:17, it’s written, “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need, but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” This Scripture emphasises the importance of showing compassion and kindness. One way to involve others in the Advent traditions of giving is by organising community service projects. Invite friends and family to volunteer at a local soup kitchen or toy drive. This is a great way to give back to the community and spread some cheer. You can also organise a gift-giving campaign for the less fortunate. Share your blessings with those in need. By involving others in the Advent traditions of giving, we can spread love, kindness, and compassion. As 1 John 3:17 reminds us, we’re called to show pity and kindness to those in need. Let’s come together to make a difference. We should strive to make a positive impact in our communities. Share the true spirit of Christmas with others.
• Blossom Akalezi
‘Create a family giving calendar with daily acts of kindness’
• Create a family giving calendar with daily acts of kindness.
• Make a reverse Advent calendar with items to donate.
• Organise an Advent service project, like a food or clothing drive.
• Sponsor a child through a Christian organisation.
• Share your blessings with others.
• Be inspired by Matthew 25:35-40, Luke 6:38, and 2 Corinthians 9:7.
• Awaki Barnabas
