This post is related to the Advent family devotional, Journey to Joy,
now available at creativecommunications.com.

One of the traditions of the Advent season is the Advent wreath. The concept of the Advent wreath originated in Germany in the 16th century. However, the modern four-candle Advent wreath, with its candles representing the Sundays of Advent, originated in 1839.

The four colored candles represent the four weeks of Advent, with one additional candle being lit each Sunday in Advent. The flames of candles are a representation of the light of Christ approaching on Christmas.

• The first candle, which is purple, symbolizes hope. It is sometimes called the “Prophecy Candle” to highlight the role of the prophets, especially Isaiah, who foretold the birth of Christ. It represents the expectation felt as we anticipate 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 pink candle symbolizes joy. It is called the “Shepherd’s Candle,” and is pink because rose is the color for joy in church settings. The Third Sunday of Advent is Gaudete Sunday (Latin for “Rejoice”) and is meant to remind us of the joy that the world experienced at the birth of Jesus, as well as the joy we have at arriving halfway through Advent.
• On the fourth week of Advent, we light the last purple candle. This candle, the “Angel’s Candle,” symbolizes peace. It reminds us of the message of the angels: “Peace on earth, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14).