Video Recommendations

Advent: A Time of Hope (V 887)
Kathleen Chesto invites parents to discover the ways they celebrate Advent in everyday life and to bring that understanding to this liturgical season. Explores the spirituality present in Christmas shopping and card writing. Discusses “expectant hope.”

The Gift (V1108)
Helps young children understand that every creature, big and small, has value in the eyes of God. Further, all have unique gifts and talents that reflect God’s love in our lives and in the lives of others.

Advent with St. Nicholas (V 1327)
Help children understand the real meaning and spirit of Advent by looking at the background and significance of Advent/Christmas customs. Learn about the Advent calendar, the Advent wreath, the Christmas tree, Christmas cards and more.

An Advent and Christmas Journey (D 5094)
Without relying on just one liturgical cycle, Father Michael Himes shares with viewers in-depth the spirituality and theology of Advent and Christmas.


Book Recommendations

The Christmas Eve Storyteller (BK 3795)
Edward Hays; Forest of Peace Publishing
Beautiful, full-color paintings and numerous pen and ink drawings grace this classic volume of seven freshly creative tales bringing to light the many and varied themes of Christmas.

O Holy Night! Masterworks of Christmas Poetry (BK 5774)
Johann M Moser (Editor); Sophia Institute Press
A treasury of poetic gems, a celebration of not just Christmas but Christianity itself. A nourishing source of light all year.

Advent in the Home: Activities for the Family (BK 5965)
Ellen Becker and Mary T. Barnes; Our Sunday Visitor
Created for today’s busy families, these activities will create memories while passing on the faith. Each craft, prayer, recipe and project sets up in minutes with simple, handy materials and offers hassle-free cleanup. Savor the real meaning of Advent with the hands-on, teachable faith moments.


Internet Recommendations

www.loyolapress.com
Take three minutes a day during Advent to prepare yourself for Christmas. These retreats will start your day with a sense of purpose and peace. They are available for every day of the year.


To check out these materials or others, phone Kathy Ward at 406-442-5820 or email kward@diocesehelena.org. To see more holdings, please visit www.diocesehelena.org. Select “Education” and then “Resource Center.”


Published in The Montana Catholic Online, Volume 26, No. 11, November 19, 2010.