Advent Wreaths

An advent wreath is a ring of evergreens that is laid down horizontally. Four candles are evenly spaced around the outside. In Catholic churches and certain other Christian traditions, three of the candles around the outside of the Advent wreath are purple and one is pink.

Symbolism of the candles

Each candle symbolizes part of the nativity story. The first candle represents the Old Testament prophets, the second candle represents Bethlehem, the third candle represents the shepherds and the fourth candle represents the angels.

Meaning of the purple candles

During Advent, Christians wait for the birth of Christ. According to the Catholic Education Resource Center, "the purple candles in particular symbolize the prayer, penance, and preparatory sacrifices and goods works undertaken at this time." Purple candles are lit on the first, second and fourth Sunday.

Meaning of the pink candle

Christians light the pink candle on the third Sunday of Advent. The color pink is joyful and marks the day that Christians are halfway through Advent. This week is also known as Gaudete Sunday. As explained by St. Paul's Lutheran Church, "Gaudete, which means "rejoice" in Latin, is the opening word of the Introit for that Sunday: Rejoice!... the Lord is near. (Philippians 4:4)."

Other Symbolism

The candles' light represents the light of Christ coming into the world. The candles are in a circle to represent God's eternity. The wreath itself is made of evergreens, which represent eternal life.

Source:

Catholic Education: The History of the Advent Wreath

St. Paul's Lutheran Church

More Information:

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America: What is an Advent Wreath?