The Guild of St. Nicholas of Bari is an initiative of the Fraternal Society of St. John the Apostle. The mission of the Guild of St. Nicholas of Bari is to restore the Catholic roots of Advent and the entirety of the Christmas and Epiphany seasons through Candlemas.

What are we Celebrating?

This portion of the liturgical year can be broken up into three seasons: Advent, Christmas, and Epiphanytide.

When using the word Christmas, it is applied to December 25 (the Nativity of our Lord) to February 2 (the Purification of the Blessed Virgin).

How you can receive a plenary indulgence praying before a Nativity scene

Season: Advent

What is Advent?

Begins on the Sunday closest to (before or after) St. Andrew’s Feast Day, which is November 30. During this time, we focus on the coming of the Lord. This period is not Christmas.

Season: Christmas

What is Christmas?

On December 25 (the Nativity of our Lord), Christmas begins.  This time lasts 12 days as in the 12 Days of Christmas.

Season: Epiphanytide

What is Ephiphanytide?

January 6 is the Feast of the Ephiphany. During this time, we continue with the mystery of Christmas. It is a distinct season to celebrate the apparition of God to his creatures. This period ends on February 2 (the Purification of the Blessed Virgin).