What every Catholic should know about Advent candles

Welcome, everyone! As we prepare our hearts and homes for Christmas, let's take a closer look at a cherished tradition: Advent candles. You might have seen these candles in churches or homes, but do you know their deeper meaning? Let's dive in!
The Advent wreath is a beautiful symbol of the season, rich with meaning and history. Each candle on the wreath represents a different aspect of our spiritual journey as we await the birth of Jesus.
But where did this tradition come from?
The Advent wreath originated in 16th-century Germany, where Christians would light candles during the dark days of December as a way to count down to Christmas. The modern Advent wreath, as we know it, became popular in the 19th century, thanks to a German pastor named Johann Hinrich Wichern. He created a large wooden ring with 24 small red candles and four larger white candles to mark the days leading up to Christmas.
Today, Advent wreaths typically have four or five candles-four around the wreath and an optional fifth candle in the center.
The first candle is called the "Prophet's Candle" and symbolizes hope. It reminds us of the prophets in the Old Testament, especially Isaiah, who foretold the coming of the Messiah. This candle's purple color represents penance, preparation, and sacrifice.
In lighting this candle, we reflect on the hope and anticipation of Christ's coming. It's a time to prepare our hearts with prayer and reflection.
The second candle, known as the "Bethlehem Candle," symbolizes peace. It calls to mind the peaceful night of Jesus’ birth and the message of peace that He brings to the world. This candle, also purple, continues the theme of preparation and penance.
As we light the Bethlehem Candle, we pray for peace in our hearts and in our world, reflecting on the peace that Christ brings.
The third candle, called the "Shepherd’s Candle," represents joy. It is lit on Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent. "Gaudete" means "rejoice" in Latin, signifying a joyful shift in our anticipation of Christmas. The rose color reflects this joy.
In lighting the Shepherd’s Candle, we celebrate the joy of Christ's imminent arrival and the joy He brings into our lives.
The fourth candle, known as the "Angel’s Candle," symbolizes love. It reminds us of the love God showed in sending His only Son to be our Savior. This candle is purple, emphasizing our continued preparation and penance.
With the Angel’s Candle, we pray that we may grow in love for God and for one another, embracing the love that Christ brings.
Some Advent wreaths include a fifth candle, known as the "Christ Candle," lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. This white candle symbolizes the purity and light of Christ, who has finally come into the world.
In lighting the Christ Candle, we celebrate the birth of our Savior and the fulfillment of God's promise.
The Advent candles and wreath guide us through this season of preparation, filling our hearts with hope, peace, joy, and love. As we light each candle, let's remember the significance behind this beautiful tradition and allow it to draw us closer to the true meaning of Christmas.
Here’s wishing everyone a blessed Advent and a joyous Christmas!
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