Each candle in a traditional Advent wreath symbolizes a different aspect of the spiritual preparation for the celebration of Christmas. These candles, typically four in number, are lit sequentially over the four weeks leading up to Christmas Day, with each one representing themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. The candles are arranged in a circular wreath, which itself symbolizes eternity and the unending love of God.
What Does Each Candle on the Advent Wreath Symbolize?
The First Candle: Hope
The first candle, often referred to as the Prophecy Candle, symbolizes hope. This candle is a reminder of the prophets, particularly Isaiah, who foretold the birth of Christ. Lighting this candle signifies the anticipation and expectation of the coming Messiah. This candle is typically purple, a color associated with penance and preparation.
The Second Candle: Peace
The second candle, known as the Bethlehem Candle, represents peace. It reflects the peaceful preparation for the birth of Jesus and is a reminder of the journey to Bethlehem. This candle is also purple and emphasizes the peace that Christ brings to the world.
The Third Candle: Joy
The third candle, called the Shepherd’s Candle, symbolizes joy. This candle is pink, marking a shift from penitence to celebration. It reflects the joy the shepherds felt when they heard the news of Jesus’s birth. This Sunday is often referred to as Gaudete Sunday, a term derived from the Latin word for "rejoice."
The Fourth Candle: Love
The fourth candle, the Angel’s Candle, stands for love. This candle is purple and signifies the love that God has for humanity, as demonstrated by the gift of His son. It is a reminder of the angels’ message of love and goodwill toward all people.
Optional Fifth Candle: Christ Candle
Some Advent wreaths include a fifth candle, known as the Christ Candle, which is white and placed in the center of the wreath. This candle is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day and represents the purity and light of Christ coming into the world.
Why Are Candle Colors Significant?
The colors of the Advent candles are deeply symbolic. Purple is traditionally associated with penance, preparation, and sacrifice, reflecting the solemn nature of Advent as a time of spiritual preparation. The pink candle marks a joyful pause in this period of anticipation, highlighting the joy of the coming celebration. The optional white candle symbolizes the purity and holiness of Jesus.
How to Arrange and Light the Advent Candles
- Arrange the candles in a circular wreath to symbolize eternity.
- Light one candle each Sunday during Advent.
- Follow the sequence: Hope, Peace, Joy, Love, and optionally, the Christ Candle on Christmas Eve or Day.
Practical Example of an Advent Wreath Ceremony
- Week One: Light the first purple candle, read a prophecy from Isaiah, and reflect on hope.
- Week Two: Light the first and second purple candles, read about the journey to Bethlehem, and discuss peace.
- Week Three: Light the first two purple candles and the pink candle, read the shepherds’ story, and celebrate joy.
- Week Four: Light all four candles, read the angels’ message, and focus on love.
- Christmas Eve/Day: Light all candles, including the white Christ Candle, and celebrate the birth of Jesus.
People Also Ask
What is the significance of the Advent wreath?
The Advent wreath is significant as it symbolizes the passage of the four weeks of Advent in the liturgical calendar. The circular shape represents God’s eternal love, while the candles mark the spiritual themes of hope, peace, joy, and love.
Why are Advent candles different colors?
Different colors are used for the Advent candles to symbolize various themes. Purple represents penance and preparation, pink signifies joy, and white, if used, symbolizes Christ’s purity and light.
How can families incorporate the Advent wreath into their traditions?
Families can incorporate the Advent wreath by setting aside time each week to light the candles, read scripture, and reflect on the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. This practice can enhance spiritual preparation and bring family members together.
What is Gaudete Sunday?
Gaudete Sunday is the third Sunday of Advent, marked by the lighting of the pink candle. It is a day of rejoicing, as the faithful anticipate the joy of Christmas. The term "Gaudete" is Latin for "rejoice."
How does lighting the Christ Candle differ from the others?
Lighting the Christ Candle differs as it is done on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, marking the culmination of Advent and the celebration of Jesus’s birth. This candle is typically white, symbolizing purity and the light of Christ.
Conclusion
Understanding the symbolism behind each candle on the Advent wreath enriches the spiritual journey through Advent. By reflecting on the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love, individuals and families can deepen their appreciation for the season and prepare their hearts for the celebration of Christmas. Whether in a church setting or at home, the Advent wreath serves as a meaningful tradition that highlights the anticipation and joy of the coming of Christ.
