The Advent season brims with optimism and gratitude, steeped in a rich tapestry of culture and traditions intertwined with Christmas. It stands as a time-honored Catholic practice, a spiritual preparation for people eagerly anticipating the commemoration of Jesus’ birth anniversary. It spans four Sundays leading up to Christmas. Various ways exist for religious communities to celebrate the birth of the Lord, but the prevalent methods involve calendars, wreaths, and candles. The Advent Wreath and its candles are potent symbols that continually remind us of Jesus’ enduring love.
“In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:4-5)
The Origins of Advent
Derived from the Latin word “adventus,” the term Advent signifies “arrival” or “coming.” It is rooted in a pre-Christian European tradition, where Germanic people, before the Advent of Christianity, would kindle candles around wreaths during the dark winter months, symbolizing their hopeful anticipation of light and warmth in the coming days. As explained by Rev. William Saunders, this pagan tradition evolved into the Christian tradition of the “Advent Wreath” during the Middle Ages. By the 1600s, the Advent Wreath had become an established Catholic custom for anticipating Christmas, spreading its influence beyond Germany to various parts of the world.
The Advent Wreath and Its Symbolism
The blessing of the Advent Wreath takes place on the First Sunday of Advent. It symbolizes eternal life and the unending soul, so it is crafted from evergreens. It also represents hope amid the cold darkness of times, signifying life and resurrection. The circular shape of the wreath reminds us that there is no end or beginning to Jesus’ love for us, reflecting His strong and infinite love and ceaseless care. It is the quintessential symbol of the season, and the Advent candles, typically nestled within the wreath, carry their profound significance and meaning. As Christmas day draws near, the flickering candlelight shines even brighter, signifying the imminent arrival of Christ.
“Today, the darkness begins to recede, and the light lengthens as the daylight hours increase. See that the beams of light are more intense, and the sun higher than it has been. Recognize that the true light is now here, illuminating the entire earth through the rays of the Gospel.” – St. Gregory of Nyssa
Symbolism and Purpose of the Advent Candles
The Four Advent Candles represent four remarkable aspects of our faith: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. Some believers also include a fifth candle, the “Christ’s Candle,” representing Light and Purity, placed in the center of the Advent Wreath to celebrate Jesus’ birth anniversary.
First Candle: HOPE
The first candle, purple in color, symbolizes HOPE and is sometimes called the “Prophecy Candle.” It is lit on the first Sunday, reminding people of Isaiah’s foretelling of Christ’s birth and God’s promises.
Second Candle: PEACE
Like the first candle, the second is purple and represents PEACE, also known as the “Bethlehem Candle.” Lit on the second Sunday, it retells the story of Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem, signifying the eventual arrival of peace despite challenges and struggles.
Third Candle: JOY
In contrast to the other three, the third candle is pink, representing JOY. It is often called the “Shepherd’s Candle” and is lit on the third Sunday, known as “Gaudete Sunday.” This candle reflects the growing joy as Christmas approaches, recalling the shepherds’ jubilation as they journeyed to see Jesus.
Fourth Candle: LOVE
The “Angel’s Candle,” lit on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, represents LOVE, symbolizing God the Father sending His only Son to save humanity. This candle is also purple, a royal color signifying the awaited new Kingdom of God on Earth for all faithful believers.
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A multi-award-winning blogger and advocate for OFWs and investment literacy; recipient of the Mass Media Advocacy Award, Philippine Expat Blog Award, and Most Outstanding Balikbayan Award. Her first book, The Global Filipino Bloggers OFW Edition, was launched at the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait. A certified Registered Financial Planner of the Philippines specializing in the Stock Market. A recognized author of the National Book Development Board of the Philippines. Co-founder of Teachers Specialist Organization in Kuwait (TSOK) and Filipino Bloggers in Kuwait (FBK). An international member of writing and poetry. Published more than 10 books. Read more: About DiaryNiGracia
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