The Advent wreath is full of symbolism for us as we prepare for the Christmas season. The wreath itself, which is made of evergreens, signifies continuous life and God’s creation. The circle of the wreath, which has no beginning or end, symbolizes the eternity of God, the immortality of the soul, and the everlasting life we find in Christ.
The candles on the Advent wreath also have a special significance. The four candles represent the four weeks of Advent; one candle is lit each Sunday. Three of the candles are purple; this liturgical color signifies a time of prayer, preparation, penance, and sacrifice.
The first purple candle symbolizes hope. It is sometimes called the “Prophecy Candle” in remembrance of the prophets, especially Isaiah, who foretold the birth of Christ. It represents the expectation felt in anticipation of the coming Messiah. The second candle, also purple, represents faith. It is often called the “Bethlehem Candle” as a reminder of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. The third candle is rose colored and symbolizes joy. It is often called the “Shepard’s Candle.” The third Sunday of Advent is Gaudete Sunday. Guadete Sunday reminds us of the joy that the world experienced at the birth of Jesus, as well as the joy of the faithful who have now reached the midpoint of Advent. On the fourth week of Advent, we light the final purple candle to mark the final week of prayer and penance as we wait for the birth of our Savior. This final candle, the “Angel’s Candle,” symbolizes peace. It reminds us of the message of the angels: Peace on earth, good will toward men.”
Blessing of the Advent wreath on this first week of Advent:
The beginning of the Advent seasons calls us to vigilance, to look beyond ourselves, to expand our minds and hearts, to look to the needs of our brothers and sisters, to desire the fulfillment of God’s Kingdom. God our Father, we praise you for your son, Jesus Christ. He is Emmanuel, the hope of all people. He is the wisdom that teaches us and guides us. He is the savior of every nation. Lord God, let your blessing come upon us as we bless our Advent wreath on the first week of Advent and as we light the first candle on our wreath. May this wreath and its light be a sign of Christ’s promise to bring salvation to the world. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
I love the symbolism of the Advent wreath. It is an important reminder to us that we are in this holy season of preparation as we count down the days to Christmas. Father Lincoln.
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