DAVILA: Connecting teens through Advent

Advent is a season of hope, reflection and anticipation — a time for preparing our hearts to welcome Jesus at Christmas. For teens, this season can often get lost in the shuffle of exams, social activities and the lure of holiday distractions. 

As adults, we have a unique opportunity to guide them through Advent in ways that deepen their faith while fostering meaningful family connections. We have an opportunity to combine prayerful practices with fun, engaging activities; we can help teens journey toward Christmas with hearts ready to encounter Christ. 

One way to connect teens with Advent is to make it tangible, interactive and spiritual: 

• Create an Advent Wreath Together: Allow teens to choose the greenery, candles and decorations. Each week, light a new candle and discuss its theme — hope, peace, joy or love — while reflecting on how to live it out. Teens can take turns leading a short prayer and fostering both ownership and spiritual growth. 

• Build the Nativity Scene Gradually: Instead of setting up the entire manger all at once, add one piece at a time during Advent. For example, place the shepherds early in the season and reflect on their humility and joy in responding to God’s call.  

• Plan a Family Adventure with an Advent Twist: Take teens on a walk or outing to where they can reflect on the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. Use the time to discuss their current faith journey. Pair the outing with hot cocoa or festive treats to create a joyful, memorable experience. 

• Daily or Weekly Reflections: Invite teens to write in a journal or share during family discussions what they’re grateful for or how they see God working in their lives. Ask reflective questions like, “How can I prepare my heart for Jesus this week?” or “Where do I see hope in my life?” 

• Dedicated Family Prayer Time: Set aside a specific evening for prayer, reading Scripture and reflecting on the meaning of Advent. Play soft music, light the Advent wreath and invite teens to share their thoughts or intentions. 

• Create Handmade Christmas Cards: Make and decorate cards for family members and friends in celebration of Christmas. Include a Scripture verse or personal prayer in each card. 

• Faith Focus Series/Movie Night: Watch a faith-filled movie or series together. After the movie or at mealtime, discuss its message and how it connects to Advent and anticipation for Christmas.  

Advent invites all of us to prepare our hearts for Jesus. As you journey with teens, take time to reflect on how you can model faith, patience and joy during this season.
Consider these two reflection questions: How can I create space for quiet reflection amid the busyness? What is one way I can help teens experience the deeper meaning of Advent this year? By blending meaningful traditions with spiritual reflection, you can help teens embrace the beauty of Advent and carry its lessons into their celebration of Christmas and beyond. 

Amy Ann Davila is an associate director with the Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization.