The Season of Advent is Upon Us
As the calendar turns to late November or early December. Catholics around the world enter a season of anticipation and preparation known as Advent. I wrote a high level overview of Advent previously, you can read it here. I wanted to really go a bit more in depth on how we celebrate this glorious season. Derived from the Latin word *adventus*, meaning “coming”. This season invites us to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Significantly as both a baby born in Bethlehem and undeniably as the King who will return.
Rich with Tradition
Advent spans the four weeks leading up to Christmas, and its rich traditions are marked by prayer, reflection, and celebration. The heart of this season is the Advent wreath, with its four candles. Each representing a unique theme for the week. Here, I will explore the significance of each candle and how the faithful celebrate each Sunday of Advent.
The Four Candles of Advent
The First Sunday of Advent
Hope
The first candle of the Advent wreath is the **Prophet’s Candle**, symbolizing hope. Its purple hue reminds us of penance and preparation. The flame calls to mind the promises of the Old Testament prophets who foretold the coming of the Messiah.
At Mass, the readings typically focus on themes of vigilance and preparation. Isaiah’s words about the coming of a savior invite us to reflect on the hope that God provides. The hope in uncertain times. The Gospel calls us to “stay awake,” spiritually ready for Christ’s arrival.
This week provides a time to nurture hope. Not just in the promise of Christmas joy, but additionally in the assurance of God’s presence in our lives.
The Second Sunday of Advent
Peace
On the second Sunday, the **Bethlehem Candle** is lit, representing peace. This candle, also purple, reminds us of Mary and Joseph. Their journey to Bethlehem and the peace that Christ’s birth brings to the world.
Mass readings this week highlight John the Baptist. The voice crying out in the wilderness, calling us to prepare the way of the Lord. His message of repentance is not one of fear but of peace. As we are invited to turn back to God and experience His mercy.
As families light the second candle. Be encouraged to reflect on how we can be peacemakers in our homes and communities.
The Third Sunday of Advent
joy
The third candle, the **Shepherd’s Candle**, is rose-colored, symbolizing joy. Known as *Gaudete* Sunday, this week marks a shift in tone as the Church emphasizes the joy of Christ’s nearness.
The readings focus on rejoicing, with St. Paul urging us to “Rejoice in the Lord always.” The pink candle signifies a break in the penitential tone. Reminding us that Advent is not only a time of preparation but also of celebration.
The joy of this week is palpable during Mass. This is often accompanied by music and festivities that point to the good news of Christ’s coming.
The Fourth Sunday of Advent
Love
The final candle, the **Angel’s Candle**, represents love. Purple returns as we meditate on the love of God made manifest in Jesus. This week’s readings often focus on Mary’s role in the Incarnation, particularly her “yes” to God’s plan.
At Mass, we are reminded of the divine love that inspired God to become one of us. The lighting of the fourth candle serves as a final invitation. To prepare our hearts fully to welcome Christ with love.
The Christ Candle
The white candle, also known as the Christ Candle. The Christ Candle is at the center of the Advent wreath and holds a significant meaning, though this candle is not always included in every tradition.
Meaning of the Christ Candle
The white candle symbolizes **purity**, **light**, and **Christ’s presence**. The color reflects the purity and sinlessness of Jesus. Who came into the world as the Light to dispel the darkness of sin. White is a liturgical color which corresponds with celebrations like Christmas and Easter, highlighting the joy and holiness of these events.
When is the white candle lit?
The Christ Candle is typically lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Marking the culmination of the Advent season and the celebration of Christ’s birth.
When the candle is part of a Christmas Eve service or a family gathering. When the reading of the Nativity story from the Gospels, particularly Luke 2:1-20 or Matthew 1:18-25, this candle is lit. It may also remain lit throughout the Christmas season, which continues until the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord.
why do you light the christ candle?
The lighting of the white candle represents the fulfillment of the Advent journey. It proclaims that Christ, the promised Messiah, has come into the world as our Savior. Its light shines brightly at the center of the wreath. Symbolizing that Jesus is the center of our lives and the reason for our celebration.
The Candle Serves as a reminder of
- Jesus’ divine identity as the Son of God
- The joy and salvation He brings to humanity
- The light of Christ that continues to guide us, dispelling darkness and bringing hope
A Moment of Reflection
Certainly when you light Christ Candle– It is a beautiful time to pause and reflect on the profound gift of Jesus. Whether during a solemn Christmas Eve Mass or at home around the Advent wreath. This moment calls us to thank God for the Incarnation—Emmanuel, “God with us.” It’s additionally an opportunity to renew our commitment to carry His light into the world.
Most importantly the white candle should inspire us to celebrate Christmas not just as a day. As a season of joy, peace, and love brought by Christ’s arrival.
Advent
A Journey of the Heart
The beauty of Advent lies in its rhythm, drawing us closer to Christ week by week. Each candle on the wreath illuminates the path we walk. Together as a Church, from the hope of the prophets to the peace of John the Baptist’s call, the joy of the shepherds, and the love of Mary’s “yes.”
As we celebrate these four Sundays at Mass. I am reminded that Advent is more than a countdown to Christmas but a profound spiritual journey. May the light of the Advent wreath guide us through this holy season. Filling our lives with hope, peace, joy, and love.
Let us prepare our hearts, emphatically not just for a holiday, but for the coming of Christ. Which is the greatest gift of all.
Merry Christmas!
How Does Your Family Celebrate Advent?
I would love to hear your family traditions below in the comments!
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I love the celebration of the Advent season and all it symbolizes. As a Protestant Christian, it is interesting to read about the Catholic faith and what Advent embodies for Catholic believers. We are all one in Christ! Thank you for sharing such interesting background!