The colors of the Advent candles—purple, pink, and white—each carry specific meanings that reflect the themes of hope, love, joy, and peace during the Advent season. These candles are an integral part of the Advent wreath, a Christian tradition that helps believers prepare for the celebration of Christmas.

What Is the Advent Wreath and Its Tradition?

The Advent wreath is a circular garland of evergreen branches representing eternity. It holds four candles, traditionally three purple and one pink, with a white candle in the center. Each candle is lit on successive Sundays during Advent, symbolizing the light of Christ coming into the world.

Why Are Advent Candles Purple and Pink?

The colors of the Advent candles are imbued with rich symbolism:

• Purple Candles: These are lit on the first, second, and fourth Sundays of Advent. Purple signifies penance, preparation, and sacrifice, reflecting the solemn nature of Advent as a time of preparation for the coming of Christ.
• Pink Candle: Lit on the third Sunday, known as Gaudete Sunday, the pink candle symbolizes joy. The shift from purple to pink represents a lightening of the mood as Christmas approaches.

What Does the White Candle Represent?

The white candle, often called the Christ candle, is placed in the center of the wreath and is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. White symbolizes purity and light, representing Christ’s sinlessness and His role as the Light of the World.

How Do the Advent Candles Reflect the Themes of Advent?

Each candle’s lighting represents a different aspect of spiritual preparation:

1. First Candle (Hope): Also known as the "Prophet’s Candle," it signifies hope and anticipation of the coming Messiah.
2. Second Candle (Love): Sometimes called the "Bethlehem Candle," it reminds believers of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem.
3. Third Candle (Joy): The "Shepherd’s Candle" reflects the joy the world experienced at the birth of Jesus.
4. Fourth Candle (Peace): Known as the "Angel’s Candle," it symbolizes the peace and goodwill that Christ’s birth brings to the world.

Practical Tips for Using an Advent Wreath at Home

• Select a wreath with fresh or artificial evergreen branches to symbolize eternal life.
• Place the candles evenly around the wreath, with the white candle in the center.
• Light the candles in sequence each Sunday, beginning with the first purple candle.
• Incorporate readings or prayers that align with each week’s theme.

Example of Weekly Themes and Prayers

• Week 1 (Hope): Reflect on biblical prophecies of Christ’s coming.
• Week 2 (Love): Contemplate the love shown through the nativity story.
• Week 3 (Joy): Celebrate the joy of the shepherds and angels.
• Week 4 (Peace): Pray for peace in your life and the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Advent season?

Advent is a time of anticipation and preparation for Christmas, celebrating Jesus Christ’s birth and looking forward to His second coming. It traditionally spans four weeks, beginning on the Sunday closest to November 30.

Why is the third candle pink in the Advent wreath?

The third candle is pink to symbolize joy, marking a shift from the penitential tone of Advent to a more celebratory mood as Christmas nears. This Sunday, Gaudete Sunday, encourages rejoicing.

Can the Advent wreath have different colored candles?

While traditional colors are purple, pink, and white, some variations exist. Blue is sometimes used instead of purple, representing hope and preparation. The key is maintaining the symbolism of hope, love, joy, and peace.

How can families incorporate Advent traditions at home?

Families can light the Advent wreath candles weekly, read related scripture passages, and engage in activities that emphasize the themes of hope, love, joy, and peace. This practice fosters a deeper spiritual connection during the holiday season.

What are other Advent traditions besides the wreath?

Other Advent traditions include Advent calendars, which count down the days to Christmas, and Jesse Trees, which tell the story of God’s salvation plan through symbols and stories from the Bible.

Conclusion

The colors of the Advent candles—purple, pink, and white—each carry profound meanings that enhance the spiritual journey leading up to Christmas. By understanding and embracing these symbols, individuals and families can deepen their appreciation of the Advent season’s themes of hope, love, joy, and peace. For further exploration of Christian traditions, consider learning about the history of Christmas carols or the significance of Epiphany.