This week, the first week of Advent, we wait for Jesus with Hope. Advent is a season of preparation for Jesus to come. We can do so many things to show that we are getting ready for his arrival. During this season of Advent, you might make an Advent wreath, light it, and say a special prayer each Sunday as a family. You might choose to do a kind deed each day for someone who needs your kindness. You might even make your own advent calendar with special activities for each day of Advent.
The Catholic Advent wreath is a cherished tradition observed during the weeks leading up to Christmas. The Advent wreath serves as a spiritual compass on our journey in preparation for the nativity of our Lord.
It symbolizes hope, peace, joy and love through its four candles, each representing a week leading up to the birth of Christ. Let’s explore the origin of the Advent wreath, the meaning behind the candles and how we can use it to grow in prayer this Advent season.
What Do the Advent Candles Represent?
The hallmark feature of the Advent wreath is the four candles: three purple and one rose-colored. Each represents a special virtue that God prompts us to cultivate during the Advent season.
The first candle, which is purple, represents hope. It reminds us of the unwavering hope we hold within us as we await the arrival of our savior. The second candle, also purple, signifies peace. It calls us to seek inner peace and also to spread peace to those around us,
The third candle, which is rose-colored, embodies joy. Lit on Gaudete Sunday, it serves as a reminder to rejoice that the coming of Christ is near. The fourth candle, purple like the first two, represents love. It symbolizes the boundless love of God, which we are called to share with others.
On certain Advent wreaths, particularly those commonly seen in churches, a central white candle known as the Christ candle is sometimes lit on Christmas day, symbolizing the life of Christ.
How to Incorporate Your Advent Wreath Into Prayer This Christmas Season
During Advent, Catholics traditionally light the wreath at the start of their prayers, using it as a focal point for meditation on the season's meaning. Set aside a specific time each week to light the Advent wreath candles and pray, either before or after dinner or as part of your existing prayer routine. Once you have taken a moment to enter into prayer, contemplate the significance of each candle's theme.
You can also incorporate certain Advent wreath prayers during this time, including the Blessing of the Advent Wreath, Advent reflections or that Sunday’s scripture readings.
Learn more, here.
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