The Advent season, a period of preparation for the birth of Christ at Christmas, is marked with a beautiful and symbolic tradition: the Advent wreath. This wreath, with its four candles, serves as a reminder of the spiritual journey Christians undertake in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

The origins of the Advent wreath can be traced back to pre-Christian Germanic peoples who used wreaths with lit candles during December as a sign of hope for the coming spring. Christians adopted this tradition, and by the Middle Ages, the Advent wreath had become a part of Christian practices, symbolizing the anticipation of Christ’s birth.

The Four Candles of the Advent Wreath

Each of the four candles on the Advent wreath represents a specific theme reflecting different aspects of the preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ’s birth. Traditionally, three of the candles are purple, and one is pink.

1. First Week - The Candle of Hope (Purple)

• Theme: This candle, also known as the “Prophet’s Candle,” symbolizes hope and anticipation. It reminds us of the prophets, especially Isaiah, who foretold the birth of Jesus Christ.

• Prayer: “Lord, as we light this candle of hope, let our hearts be filled with the anticipation of your birth. Help us to prepare our hearts for your coming. Amen.”

2. Second Week - The Candle of Faith (Purple)

• Theme: Also known as the “Bethlehem Candle,” it represents faith and the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem.

• Prayer: “Heavenly Father, as we light this candle, strengthen our faith in Your promises. Guide us in our own journeys of faith. Amen.”

3. Third Week - The Candle of Joy (Pink)

• Theme: This is the “Shepherd’s Candle,” symbolizing joy. The pink color represents rejoicing as the faithful are reminded of the joy that the world experienced at the birth of Jesus. We experience to joy of the approaching Christmas Day.

• Prayer: “God of Joy, as we light the third candle, fill our hearts with the joy that comes from your love and grace. May we spread this joy in our world. Amen.”

4. Fourth Week - The Candle of Peace (Purple)

• Theme: Known as the “Angel’s Candle,” this candle symbolizes peace, reminding us of the message of the angels: “Peace on Earth, goodwill to all.”

• Prayer: “Lord of Peace, as we light this final Advent candle, grant us peace in our hearts, our homes, and our world. Amen.”

Preparing for Christmas through the Advent Wreath

The Advent wreath is not just a symbol, but also a tool for spiritual reflection and preparation. Each week, as a new candle is lit, families and congregations are invited to reflect on the coming of Jesus into the world and what that means for their lives. This period is an opportunity to prepare our hearts and minds for the true meaning of Christmas beyond the commercialization of the holiday.

The Advent wreath serves as a powerful reminder of the journey of faith, hope, joy, and peace that leads to Christmas Day. It is a tradition that enriches our spiritual lives and connects us more deeply to the profound mystery of God becoming a man in the person of Jesus Christ. As we light each candle, let us remember the journey that Mary and Joseph took to Bethlehem, the shepherds who received the good news with joy and the hope and peace that Jesus brings into our world.

May this Advent season be a time of meaningful reflection and spiritual growth as we await the celebration of the birth of Christ.