As the days grow shorter and the world outside becomes cloaked in darkness, the arrival of Advent offers a profound sense of hope and anticipation to millions of Christians around the globe. Derived from the Latin word “adventus,” meaning “coming or arrival,” Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical year and is a sacred season of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas Day. It is a period the Church embarks on a spiritual journey during these four weeks leading up to Christmas, embracing the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. At the heart of this profound tradition stands the Advent wreath, adorned with candles symbolizing these themes, and accompanied by heartfelt prayers that kindle the light of faith, one candle at a time.

The lighting of the Advent wreath candles is a cherished Christian tradition that holds deep spiritual significance. it serves as a sacred reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. Each candle represents a different facet of the Christian journey during Advent: The first candle, which is purple, symbolizes hope. It is sometimes called the “Prophecy Candle” in remembrance of the prophets, especially Isaiah, who foretold the birth of Christ. It represents the expectation felt in anticipation of the coming Messiah.

The second candle, also purple, represents faith. It is called the “Bethlehem Candle” as a reminder of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem.

The third candle is pink and symbolizes joy. It is called the “Shepard’s Candle,” and is pink because rose is a liturgical color for joy. The third Sunday of Advent is Gaudete Sunday and is meant to remind us of the joy that the world experienced at the birth of Jesus, as well as the joy that the faithful have reached the midpoint of Advent.

On the fourth week of Advent, we light the final purple candle to mark the final week of prayer and penance as we wait for the birth of our Savior. This final candle, the “Angel’s Candle,” symbolizes peace. It reminds us of the message of the angels: “Peace on Earth, Good Will Toward Men.”

Though the Mercy Home Advent wreath does not include a white candle, this is a tradition that has become popular in modern day adaptations.

The white candle is placed in the middle of the wreath and lit on Christmas Eve. This candle is called the “Christ Candle” and represents the life of Christ. The color white is for purity—because Christ is our sinless, pure Savior.