Advent is a season of anticipation and preparation for the celebration of Christmas, and the colors of the Advent candles are rich in symbolism and tradition. Typically, the Advent wreath holds four candles, each with its own meaning and color, representing different aspects of the season.
What Are the Colors of the Advent Candles?
The traditional colors of the Advent candles are three purple, one pink, and an optional white candle. Each candle is lit on successive Sundays leading up to Christmas, symbolizing themes of hope, love, joy, and peace.
Why Are Advent Candles Purple and Pink?
Purple is a color associated with penitence and preparation, reflecting the solemn nature of the Advent season. The pink candle, lit on the third Sunday of Advent, represents joy and marks a shift in the mood of the season towards celebration.
What Does Each Advent Candle Represent?
- First Candle (Hope): The first purple candle, also known as the "Prophet’s Candle," symbolizes hope and expectation for the coming of Christ.
- Second Candle (Love): The second purple candle, the "Bethlehem Candle," represents love and reminds us of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem.
- Third Candle (Joy): The pink candle, called the "Shepherd’s Candle," signifies joy and rejoicing, reflecting the joy of the shepherds who received the good news.
- Fourth Candle (Peace): The final purple candle, known as the "Angel’s Candle," symbolizes peace and the message of the angels: "Peace on Earth, goodwill to men."
Is There a Fifth Candle?
Some traditions include a white candle in the center of the wreath, called the "Christ Candle," which is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. This candle represents the purity and light of Christ.
How to Use an Advent Wreath at Home
Using an Advent wreath at home can be a meaningful way to mark the season. Here are some steps to get started:
- Choose a wreath: Select a wreath that suits your style, whether it’s made of evergreen branches or a simple metal frame.
- Arrange the candles: Place three purple candles, one pink candle, and optionally, a white candle in the center.
- Light one candle each week: Begin with the first purple candle on the first Sunday of Advent, adding a new candle each week.
- Reflect on the themes: Spend time in reflection or prayer, focusing on the weekly theme of hope, love, joy, or peace.
People Also Ask
What Is the Meaning of the Advent Wreath?
The Advent wreath is a circular garland of evergreen branches representing eternity. The candles symbolize the light of Christ coming into the world, with each candle marking a step in the journey towards Christmas.
Why Is the Third Advent Candle Pink?
The third Advent candle is pink to signify joy. Known as Gaudete Sunday, this day marks a break in the penitential spirit of Advent, with the pink candle symbolizing a shift towards joyful anticipation.
Can Advent Candles Be Different Colors?
While the traditional colors are purple and pink, some churches or families may choose different colors based on personal or cultural traditions. However, the meanings associated with each candle remain the same.
How Do You Light Advent Candles?
Advent candles are typically lit in order, one each week, starting with the first purple candle. The pink candle is lit on the third Sunday, followed by the final purple candle on the fourth Sunday. If a white candle is used, it is lit on Christmas Eve or Day.
What Do You Say When Lighting Advent Candles?
There is no set prayer or saying for lighting Advent candles, but many families choose to read a Bible verse or offer a prayer related to the theme of the week. This can be a personal or traditional choice.
Conclusion
The colors of the Advent candles—purple, pink, and sometimes white—carry deep symbolic meanings that enrich the spiritual journey towards Christmas. By understanding and embracing these traditions, individuals and families can deepen their appreciation of the Advent season, fostering a sense of hope, love, joy, and peace. For further exploration, consider learning about the history of Advent or how different cultures celebrate this sacred time.
