Advent: A season of contradictions
The season of Advent is full of contradictions, says Dr Kevin Hargaden, Director and Social Justice Theologian at the Jesuit Centre for Faith and Justice and Presbyterian Elder. Advent is filled with light and darkness, but ultimately, he says, it’s about time coming to its fullness. It offers an eternal hope that our greatest dawn may come after the deepest darkness.
Referring to the story of the birth of the infant Jesus, he adds, “I think there is great solace and consolation in remembering that God has surprised us before, and we can trust that he will surprise us again… so keep the faith.”
Kevin speaks with Pat Coyle of Irish Jesuit Communications about the importance of spiritual nourishment during the often-difficult waiting period of Advent and cites the Examen prayer of St Ignatius as an example of a helpful reflective tool for the season of Advent. “It’s an Ignatian spiritual tradition that ultimately guides us to recognise where God is active in our life,” he says, adding, “The different stages include reflecting on where God has been present in the day, giving thanks, reviewing the day, facing shortcomings, and anticipating the coming day.”
Listen here to his interview from the Religious Network News archive »
