The Advent Wreath and Candles is a tradition
that Christians celebrate on each of the four Sundays
before Christmas day on the 25th of December.
The wreath is a circle shape that symbolizes the eternity of God
it is made of evergreen boughs representing everlasting life.
There are five candles placed on the wreath, a large white
candle is placed in the center. It symbolizes the birth of Jesus Christ
and is lit on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
There are four smaller candles placed around the wreath, the colors
of these candles may vary depending on the traditions of the church.
The most common colors of these candles is three purple and one pink.
The first Sunday of Advent this year is December 3rd.
The first purple candle is lit on this day and represents:
HOPE
I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.
Psalm 130 : 5
On the second Sunday of Advent another purple candle is lit representing:
PEACE
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you,
I do not give to you as the world gives.
Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27
The third Sunday of Advent is when the pink candle is lit representing :
JOY
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,
give thanks in all circumstances;
for this is God's will for you in Jesus Christ.
1 Thessalonians 5 : 16-18
On the fourth Sunday of Advent the last purple candle is lit representing:
LOVE
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,
that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3 ;16
