2021 Advent Calendar

“Let us go, then, to Bethlehem to see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.”

Luke 2:15

The season of Advent marks a time of preparation for the coming of the Christ Child, but like the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, it’s preparation on the move. Here at JRS/USA, we hope that this Advent Calendar will allow you to make this liturgical season a pilgrimage by accompanying refugees on their journey.

Take time each day this Advent to walk in solidarity with refugees and displaced persons through moments of prayer, reflection, and advocacy. It’s an opportunity to see Christ revealed through God’s people and it’s a journey worth taking.

Click here to download the 2021 Advent Calendar to print and share with your parish, school, or community.

La temporada de Adviento marca un tiempo de preparación para la venida del Niño Jesús, pero al igual que el viaje de María y José a Belén, es una preparación dinámica. Aquí en JRS/USA, esperamos que este Calendario de Adviento te permita hacer de este tiempo litúrgico una peregrinación acompañando a los refugiados en su viaje

Haga clic aquí para descargar el Calendario de Adviento para imprimir y compartir con su parroquia, escuela o comunidad.

1 As we start our journey through Advent, may we offer our prayers for all refugees and displaced persons.

2 Offer a prayer for all those, including refugees, who have been impacted by COVID-19, especially for families that have lost loved ones and feel the strain of separation.

3 Join JRS in our prayer of the Holy Family, as we especially remember those who have been turned away in times of great need.

4 From Pope Francis: “I realize that some people are hesitant and fearful with regard to migrants. . . people are only fruitful and productive if they are able to develop a creative openness to others.”

5 Offer a prayer for all those who serve refugees. May their work be blessed and continue to uphold the dignity of the most vulnerable among us.

6 Reach out to your local parish, community center, or refugee resettlement agency. Inquire about opportunities to support refugee families. Or as you shop for holiday gifts, consider buying a refugee-made product.

7 The changing climate is affecting the livelihoods of many people across our globe. Offer a prayer for those displaced by climate change.

8 Maria is a young mother who fled from Honduras. Offer a prayer for all young mothers like Maria who are searching for a better life for their children.

9 On the feast of St. Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin, let us pray for Latin America, home to 20% of the world’s displaced population. St. Juan Diego, pray for us!

10 Read and reflect on Matthew 2:13-15. Imagine being a part of this scene. How does it play out in modern day?

11 Most refugees are forced to make a split-second decision as they flee from their home. What one item would you grab if you were forced to flee your home?

12 On the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patron Saint of the Americas, offer your prayers for all asylum seekers at the U.S.’s southern border that they may find safety, security, and refuge.

13 Let us pray for displaced persons who have been told they have nothing to offer - may we see their beauty and identity as beloved children of God.

14 Offer a prayer for refugees who live in camps as they dream of a life beyond their limited surroundings.

15 Send a letter to your elected officials and urge them to demonstrate leadership on refugee issues.

16 Fleeing from one’s home can be a distressing experience. Offer a prayer for all those in need of psychosocial support and mental health care, and for their caregivers.

17 Offer a prayer for all school-aged refugee children, especially for those who are unable to attend school.

18 Read and reflect on Exodus 22:20. In what ways do we oppress the stranger? How can we show greater hospitality?

19 According to Father James Martin, “refugee” is in the biblical text itself. In Matthew 2:13, the angel tells Joseph to “Arise, and take the child and his mother, and flee into Egypt….” In the original Greek, that word flee is pheuge.

20 Offer a prayer for teachers, who work to provide students with a quality education during this difficult time.

21 Pray for political leaders and decision makers, that they may listen to the stories of displaced persons and that their policies may prioritize refugees.

22 Offer a prayer for peace and reconciliation, that our divided communities may find healing.

23 Read and reflect on Hebrews 13:1-2. How could you be entertaining angels this Christmas?

24 As we await the birth of Jesus, offer a prayer for all children who have been separated from their parents. Pray for the reunification of all families.