I know you may not like what I have to say but there isn't really anything that anyone over here can say or do to exactly tell you what the issue is with your application and why it is taking so long. It happens! That does not mean it's entirely a bad thing.
The application is still within IRCC's processing standards and these things unfortunately can take longer for some people even when there is no reason so please be patient, keep following up with your representative if you have one and again, please remain hopeful and have patience.
Another way of looking at this is - at least you have the AOR - which is great - it means they have accepted your application - and they haven't said anything negative or sent any negative updates or asking additional information so that means your application is still in their system and is just being slow - no need to worry if you think that your application was sent properly. If there is any specific problem, they will reach out and ask for more details but sometimes no news is also good news so just hang in there, your updates will flood-in soon. So yes, the answer is just wait please. There are many people who don't even receive the AOR and eventually get the application approved. Weird things happen and IRCC can sometimes also be tricky to understand.
And if you feel, something is fishy or the hold up is because of some error on their part then I am sure IRCC helpline will be able to help but they are just asking you to wait is because they don't think there is anything wrong so they cannot pinpoint and give you any other update except just asking you to wait.
Christmas time is usually a slow period. I genuinely hope you start receiving your updates in the coming days. If you have a representative and they are also an immigration consultant/lawyer then maybe they can assist you further but my honest opinion is - just wait.