Advent, the beginning of a new liturgical year, begins this year on Sunday, November 29. On that day, the gospel readings concern death and judgment. During Advent, we are invited to reflect on our lives: our sinful thoughts, words, deeds, and sins of omission, and to prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas and at the Last Judgment, through repentance and amendment of life. At this time of the year, it’s also common to read, or see performances of, Charles Dickens’ A