Radio Maria UK invites listeners to "Unwrap Advent"

Radio Maria UK invites listeners to "Unwrap Advent" with the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Listeners can call in or sign up online from 23 November to receive a Gift to focus on this Advent.

Radio Maria UK is launching Unwrap Advent, a new Advent journey inviting listeners to prepare for Christmas with the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Priest Director of the Radio, Fr Toby Lees OP said: "This Advent, I want to invite you to focus on one particular gift of the Holy Spirit, and how it might help you in your daily life."

From Monday 23 to Friday 27 November, listeners can call in to Radio Maria UK programmes to receive their personal Gift. Each Gift will be drawn live on air from a basket of printed Gifts in the studio by Fr Toby Lees OP or one of the station's presenters. People can also register online or by scanning the QR code on Unwrap Advent posters, and their Gift will be sent by email.

The seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord. The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes them as permanent dispositions that help people follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Everyone who registers will receive a Bible quote linked to their Gift to pray with.

Advent begins on Sunday 29 November. Radio Maria UK encourages listeners to register or call before then to enjoy the full experience, although sign-ups will remain open throughout Advent.

Throughout the season, the station will broadcast special programmes exploring the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. Special guests will also speak about the Gifts in short which will be sent directly to those that have registered. Each week, registered listeners will receive an email with programme times and a link to the previous week's podcast.

"I am so excited to journey through Advent with the Radio Maria community from all around the country, learning more about the Gifts of the Holy Spirit together. Forget the Advent calendar this year! Focus on one Gift and all the others will grow too," said Helena Judd, Promotions, Fundraising and Events Manager for Radio Maria UK.

How to take part

• Call in to Radio Maria UK programmes between 23 and 27 November: +44 (0)333 444 1211.

• Register online: RadioMaria.uk

• Scan the QR code on Unwrap Advent posters

• Questions: 0300 302 1251