Preparing for Advent: Formed by the Rhythms of the Church Year

The church calendar invites us into a different kind of time—one shaped not by deadlines or holidays, but by the story of God. As we prepare for Advent, join Dr. Mark Hausfeld, Dr. Gail Johnsen, and Pastor Stephanie Smith for a conversation on how following the church calendar helps our holistic formation. We’re invited to step into a sacred rhythm that helps reorient our hearts toward what truly matters.

Advent marks the beginning of the Christian year, a season of waiting, longing, and hope. It reminds us that formation doesn’t happen in a hurry. Just as the world waited for Christ’s first coming and now waits for His return, we learn to live with expectancy and trust in God’s timing.

Following the rhythm of the church calendar forms us slowly and deeply. It trains our attention toward the life of Christ—His birth, ministry, death, resurrection, and reign—and invites us to pattern our lives after His. As the seasons of the year shape our habits and routines, the seasons of the church year shape our souls.

Preparing for Advent, then, isn’t just about lighting candles or decorating our homes. It’s about creating space—space for reflection, prayer, and holy anticipation. When we align our lives with the rhythms of God’s story, we’re formed not by the rush of culture but by the steady heartbeat of grace.