During the advent season, it’s customary in the Catholic Church to have an advent wreath present in our homes, and parishes. This Advent Wreath usually has 4 candles and have their own special significance and are gradually lit throughout the four weeks of advent.
Meaning of Advent Candles Catholic
Lighting these Advent candles each week symbolizes the proximity of Jesus’ coming, hence each candle has its own special symbol and meaning.
Week 1: Purple Advent Candle, Hope
The first candle lit on the first week of Advent is a purple candle, this candle represents hope. In the first week of Advent, we recall the Prophet Isaiah, who anticipated the birth of Jesus. This first candle also represents the anticipation of the arrival of the Messiah.
Week 2: Purple Advent Candle, Faith
The second candle to be lit is also a purple candle. This candle symbolizes faith and the journey of Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem. It calls you out to prepare the way of the Lord.
Week 3: Pink Advent Candle, Joy
The next and third candle to be lit is the pink candle, which represents Joy. This candle reminds us that Jesus coming is near as we reach the middle point of Advent. The third Sunday of Advent is also called Gaudete Sunday, which symbolizes the nearness of Christ’s coming.
Week 4: Purple Advent Candle, Peace
On the fourth and final Sunday of Advent, the last candle is lit, which is purple. This candle represents peace and reminds us of the importance of Peace as the true savior of the world is coming.
Celebrating Advent At Home
Advent does not stop with the lighting of candles on the wreath every Sunday at Mass. As Catholics, we should give an extra mile by incorporating the joy of Advent in our daily lives.
