Father Richard, when I look at the Star of Bethlehem on Christmas cards and crèche displays, I can’t help but wonder—what makes that star so significant to our Advent journey?
Advent, from the Latin adventus meaning “coming” or “arrival,” begins the Church’s liturgical year and prepares the faithful for the celebration of Christ’s nativity. It is a season of anticipation, prayer, and reflection, centered on the themes of light and hope breaking into the world’s darkness. Within this season, the Star of Bethlehem shines as one of the most powerful symbols connecting Advent’s message with the mystery of Christ’s coming.
The Star of Bethlehem, as described in the Gospel of St. Matthew, was the heavenly sign that led the Magi to the newborn Christ. Scripture tells us: “When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him” (Matthew 2:10–11). More than a natural event, the star was a miraculous sign of divine intervention, announcing to the world that the Messiah had arrived.
Advent itself is about preparing to receive that same Messiah—both in the historical celebration of His Nativity and in anticipation of His second coming. The star perfectly captures this dual reality. Just as the Magi followed its light, the faithful in Advent are called to follow the light of Christ in the midst of life’s uncertainties. The star embodies God’s guidance, reminding us that He leads His people, sometimes through extraordinary means, always toward salvation.
Theologically, the star fulfills Old Testament prophecy. Balaam declared: “A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel” (Numbers 24:17). In Advent, these prophecies are recalled in the liturgy, showing how Christ is the promised ruler who brings deliverance. Spiritually, the star’s light reflects the candles of the Advent wreath, which signify hope, peace, joy, and love—each one pointing toward Christ, the true Light of the world. Isaiah’s words, proclaimed in Advent, capture this truth: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light” (Isaiah 9:2).
Beyond its biblical and theological roots, the star carries profound lessons for Advent practice. First, it is a guiding light: like the Magi, believers must seek God’s direction to keep Christ at the center of life. Second, it is a symbol of hope: shining in troubled times, it reminds us that God’s promises remain firm. Third, it is a call to worship: the Magi’s journey of adoration becomes our own invitation to prayer and reverence. Finally, it is a call to unity: the star drew people of different nations and cultures together at the feet of Christ, reflecting the universal reach of His message.
In today’s world, often clouded by division and despair, the star still points the way. Advent challenges us to embody that light—through acts of kindness, reconciliation, and generosity—so that Christ’s presence shines through us. Decorations, nativity scenes, and even star-shaped ornaments remind us of this truth, but their meaning is only complete when we live as bearers of Christ’s light.
In the final analysis, the connection between Advent and the Star of Bethlehem lies in their shared proclamation: God has entered our world as light in the darkness. The star that once guided the Magi continues to guide us, urging us to prepare our hearts, renew our hope, and rejoice in the Savior’s coming.
By Fr. Richard Breton
Bookmark and visit NorwichDiocese.org/Advent for additional resources this Advent season.
To Prepare Your Heart for the Coming of the Lord