Keeping Advent and Christmas

Discovering the Rhythms and Riches of the Christmas Seasons

While popular traditions of celebrating Christmas are an integral part of our shared culture, less is known about how other days of the Christian calendar at this time of year are observed and celebrated. Which prayer led to the creation of the Christmas pudding? Why is St Lucy remembered during Advent? What is the meaning of 'boxing' on St Stephen's Day? Does Christmas really last until February? Leigh Hatts' comprehensively-researched book helps us to rediscover the Christian-based, seasonal customs buried deep within our culture and church life. Keeping Advent and Christmas is packed with fascinating details about the beliefs, rituals and traditions of liturgical days between 'Stir-up Sunday' (the Sunday before Advent Sunday) and Candlemas (the official end of the Christmas period, on 2 February).