The Advent wreath is a popular Advent custom that originated in Germany. It consists of four candles (three purple and one rose), surrounded by evergreen branches. The candles represent the four weeks of Advent, and the number of candles lighted each week corresponds to the number of the current week of Advent. The rose candle is lit on the Third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday. So, one purple candle is lit the first week, two the second, two purple and one rose the third, and finally all four in the last week of Advent. The light of the candles signifies the light of Christ, who will come into the world at Christmas.
The History of the Advent Wreath: While the Advent wreath is a feature in many Catholic homes and even Catholic churches during the season of Advent, it actually originated among the Lutherans of Eastern Germany in the 16th century. It was quickly adopted by both Protestants and Catholics throughout Germany, and it was brought to the United States by German immigrants in the 19th century. The Advent wreath has deeper origins as well, extending back to pre-Christian customs of burning lights during the darkest months of winter. Medieval Christians retained the custom while seeing such lights as a symbol of Christ.
Making Your Own Advent Wreath: It's very easy to incorporate the Advent wreath into your preparations for Christmas. You will need four candles—traditionally, three purple and one rose, though you can substitute white. Then, you will need some evergreen boughs to arrange around them. They don't even have to be in a circle; you can place them in a straight line—say, on the mantel over the fireplace.
How to use the Advent Wreath:
Begin with the Sign of the Cross
You might read the day’s gospel reading, and then pray the following prayer:
Lord God, let your blessing come upon us as we light the candles of this wreath.
May the wreath and its light be a sign of Christ’s promise to bring us salvation. May he come quickly and not delay. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
