Advent is a time of waiting, reflection and hope in the Christian life. During this period, the Church invites us to prepare for the coming of Jesus, both by remembering his birth 2000 years ago and by anticipating his second coming, the Parousia, at the end of time. It is a time to live the present with the light and love of Christ, while we await his glorious coming.
One of the most representative symbols of this time is the Advent Wreath, which helps us visualize the spiritual path towards Christmas. Next, we will explore the meaning of each of its elements.
Meaning of the Advent Wreath
The circular shape of the wreath represents the eternity of God, without beginning or end. It is a reminder that God’s love has no limits and his presence is constant throughout time.
Green foliage symbolizes hope, like an evergreen tree that, despite the changing seasons, maintains its life. This green reminds us of the promise of eternal life that Jesus brought us when he was born in Bethlehem. It can be made of pine, fir, or artificial material, but its green color always speaks of hope and renewal.
Advent Candles
Each candle on the wreath corresponds to a week of Advent, and by lighting them, we dive deeper into preparing our hearts for the coming of Jesus.
- Purple or White Candles: The first three candles, which are lit on each of the first three Sundays of Advent, are purple or white. This color symbolizes waiting and penitence, reminding us that this is a time of preparation to receive the Lord. The color purple is also associated with Lent, as it is a time of reflection and preparation.
- Pink Candle: On the third Sunday of Advent, also called “Sunday of Joy,” a pink candle is lit. This day is special because it celebrates the nearness of Christmas. The pink candle represents the joy of the coming of Christ, the joy of his presence in our lives. This Sunday is a time to remember that Christmas is near, and we should rejoice in the promise of salvation that Jesus brings to the world.
- The Syrian or white candle: Finally, the white candle is lit on Christmas Eve, symbolizing the light of Christ coming into the world. The light of the white candle is the center of the wreath and reminds us that Christ is the light of the world, who dispels the darkness of sin and leads us to eternal life.
Spiritual Preparation
Advent is not only a time to decorate our homes, but to live spiritually, what the Advent Wreath teaches us. Let us remember the past: the first coming of Jesus in Bethlehem. Let us live the present: the constant presence of Christ in our daily lives. And let us await the future: the second coming of Christ in glory, when He will come to judge the living and the dead.
It is a unique opportunity to make each candle lit a step closer to Christmas, towards the encounter with the light of Christ that illuminates our lives. In this time of Advent, we can create an atmosphere of reflection, prayer and catechesis, sharing with our loved ones the profound meaning of each candle and its call to live in hope and faith.
Family Catechesis
A beautiful tradition is to share a brief catechesis on the Advent Wreath with our children, friends and family. It is a time to remember that we are preparing for the arrival of Jesus, a time to talk about the eternity of God, the hope he gives us and the joy we experience as we approach his birth. This simple act can be a great occasion to teach the little ones and renew our faith on each of the Sundays of Advent.
In short, the Advent Wreath is not just a Christmas decoration, but a powerful tool to delve deeper into the mystery of Christmas and the journey towards the Parousia. Let us take advantage of each week of Advent to live in a more conscious and grateful way, waiting with faith for the coming of our Savior.
May each candle lit bring us closer to the light of Christ.
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