I think there must be something wrong with me, Linus. Christmas is coming, but I’m not happy. I don’t feel the way I’m supposed to feel. — Charlie Brown

The two Gregorys. Long ago, Advent lasted longer and was more about fasting and penance -- similar to Lent today. In the sixth century, Pope St. Gregory I enhanced the five Sunday liturgies of Advent to include more Advent-specific prayers, antiphons, readings and responses. In the 11th century, Pope St. Gregory VII reduced the number of Sundays in Advent to four, giving us more or less the Advent we have today.

Today, connect with someone for whom this time of year is painful and bring some joy to their day.