Advent Wreath, Chapel at Academy of the Sacred Heart, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

A small green wreath of hope, 
four candles symbolizing the weeks of willingness to remain a bit longer in the darkness, 
before we awaken and walk in the light of Christ. 
In this time, we prepare to make way through the clutter to our own "Bethlehem," 
holding space in the circle to believe that something new is possible ...

Prepare me, Advent.

Prepare me
to be transformed,
to transform,
to courageously listen and speak.

Prepare me
to cover the wreath with greens of renewal,
to light one more candle in prayer each week,
to linger in suspense and anticipation.

Prepare me
to stay awake and aware,
to seek Christ in all life,
to be the manger.

Prepare me.
 

Reflection: Bridget Bearss, RSCJ, Executive Director of the Stuart Center and Erin Everson, Communications Coordinator for the United States – Canada Province
Image: Wreath in the chapel at Academy of the Sacred Heart, Bloomfield Hills in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan