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The Meaning of the Catholic Advent Wreath and Advent Candles

In the weeks before Christmas, the world around us seems to rush—busy streets, crowded stores, endless lists. But in the quiet tradition of the Advent wreath, the Church invites us to do something different: to wait, to prepare, and to hope.

A Circle Without End

The Advent wreath is more than a seasonal decoration. Its circle of evergreens, with no beginning and no end, speaks of God’s eternal love. The green branches remind us that even in the dead of winter, life endures. It is a simple, quiet symbol that whispers of renewal, hope, and faithfulness.

Placed on a table at home or before the altar in church, the wreath becomes a gathering place for prayer. It marks time not by days and hours, but by longing and expectation.

The Light That Grows

At the center of the wreath are four candles—three purple and one rose. They are lit, one by one, across the four Sundays of Advent.

  • First Candle (Hope): The “Prophet’s Candle,” lit in the darkness, reminds us of Israel’s long wait for the Messiah and our own hope in Christ.
  • Second Candle (Peace): The “Bethlehem Candle” speaks of the humble journey of Mary and Joseph, and the promise of peace that only Christ brings.
  • Third Candle (Joy): The rose-colored “Shepherd’s Candle” breaks the solemn purple with a flash of joy, Gaudete Sunday, a reminder to rejoice because the Lord is near.
  • Fourth Candle (Love): The “Angel’s Candle” recalls the heavenly message of love: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace.”

Some wreaths include a fifth, white candle at the center. It is the “Christ Candle,” lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, symbolizing the true Light entering our world.

A Journey of the Heart

Lighting the candles week by week is not only a way of counting down to Christmas—it is a way of opening our hearts. With each flame, the darkness is pushed back a little more. With each prayer, we prepare a place for Christ.

Advent is not meant to be hurried. It is a gentle invitation to pause, to breathe, and to remember that Christmas is not simply about a date on the calendar, but about welcoming a Savior into our lives.

Bringing the Wreath Into Your Home

The beauty of the Advent wreath is that it belongs as much in a family living room as it does in a church. Gathering to light the candles, read Scripture, or offer a simple prayer at home can turn ordinary evenings into sacred moments.

In the soft glow of the candles, we are reminded: Christ is coming, Christ is near, Christ is our light.