The Significance Of Gratitude In The Advent And Christmas Prelude Prayers

Abstract

The prelude prayers of Advent and Christmas emphasize the mysteries of creation and redemption by God. These mysteries encompass humanity, and not a single moment is beyond the providence of God. Father Timothy Radcliffe once said, "All goodness is a gift, and prayer opens my eyes to grace." Indeed, every step in the life of a believer can be seen in the perspective of gratitude because they never cease to receive grace. Even their presence in every moment, every breath, is already a grace. The current Covid-19 pandemic highlights how crucial every breath is. Therefore, the prelude prayers are an essential part of the Mass as they awaken the worshipful heart of the community, recalling all the gifts of God throughout the history of humanity and the personal history of each individual. Through the prelude prayers, the community is not only invited to give thanks during the Mass but also to continue this attitude throughout their lives. Indeed, only when one knows how to be thankful and praise can they truly understand who they are: if we can become what we are meant to be, the essence of each person, it is thanks to God and His love. Only when we recognize this reality can we come closer to God.