Years ago I attended a conference on the state of the environment. The consensus among the scientists who spoke there was damning. We’re all too far down the path to turn back, they said. The earth is done.

There’s something about the way our culture enters into the Christmas season that shines a harsh light on the imperfections in our lives. Advertising and Christmas-themed entertainment

Advent marks the beginning of our Christian year; not the end. The word ‘advent’ comes from the Latin meaning ‘to come,’ or ‘coming.’ It is a time set aside for us to long for, to wait, and to prepare for the arrival of the saviour of the world once and for all. Our culture has completely destroyed this season of waiting.