Advent is a time when, in the midst of an unbelieving world, something of the light of lost faith becomes visible, as if we perceive its reflection. Just as we can still see stars long after they have gone out, because their original light, which they no longer possess, is still on its way to us, so too does mystery often retain something of warmth and hope for those who can no longer believe.
(Joseph Ratzinger /1927–2022/, meditation on the Advent season)