Advent Novena-Herbergsuche 15 - 24 December 2025

We are looking for seven households from Ústí nad Labem or the surrounding area who will join us in reviving the almost forgotten custom of the Advent Novena. This custom is linked to the pre-Christmas story of Joseph and the Virgin Mary searching in vain for nine days in Bethlehem for a place to sleep. In reference to this legend, a statue of the Virgin Mary was carried from house to house for nine nights** as a symbol of blessing and a sign of respect for the mother who would soon give birth to a son. Displayed in a place of honour while ceremonial songs were sung, it thus "spent the night". The following evening it was carried through the darkness to the next building and remained in the last-ninth one until the Christmas Eve.

We would very much like to continue this ancient custom again. They stopped in their bustle, plunged into darkness and wandered through the silent landscape. Instead of a Marian statuette, we will carry a freshly picked (perhaps frost-bitten) rose blossom that can stay for one night in a vase in someone's home. At the same time, as a sign of hospitality, each household will cook something good, receive the pilgrim with the rose and invite him to their home for dinner. The first shelter will find the Rose in the magical house Löblhof in Staňkovice, where we will go together. The last address is Himmlhaus in Blansko.

We cordially invite you to join us for Advent contemplation with the Rose and a treat at the illuminated table. Here we can enjoy togetherness and get to know each other better. The capacity of the Löblhof is limited to 30 guests. Reserve your place obligatorily by emailing efemer.info@gmail.com (due to the number of upcoming servings). The next days the novena takes place in a small circle of registered participants. Each household will record their celebration on a money camera. The developed images, accompanied by your comments, will become part of the exhibition Shared Existence at the Ústí nad Labem House of Arts (DUÚL). If you are interested in participating in the Advent Novena (i.e.: I offer shelter to Rose, I host, I transfer Rose to her new home, there I am treated

Form here

Very much looking forward to new surprise encounters, calming and stopping in the now hectic Advent season!