Advent Wreath
History
The Advent wreath originated only a
few hundred years ago in East Germany and seems to
have been suggested by one of the many ‘light’ symbols
used in folk-lore at the end of November or the
beginning of December. In pre-Christian times people
began celebrating the month of Yule (December) with
the burning of lights and fires. Christians in medieval
times kept many of these customs alive as popular
devotions.
Symbol of Life
The circle represents the fulfilment of time being achieved in the coming of
Christ.
The Greenery
The greenery suggests life and growth and hope.
The Candles and Light
These remind us of the light Jesus brought into the world. The waiting
for the four candles to be it symbolises the long years of waiting for the saviour.
Colours of Purple and Pink
Purple is both a colour suggesting penance and fasting; perhaps,
even a royal colour for the coming of the King. Pink is used as a colour of joy and expectation
For use in the Home The Advent wreath can act as a simple and effective focal point for short family
prayer. Find a suitable time, such as after the evening meal or before going to bed. the following prayers
can be said when lighting each candle.
For use in the Parish
An Advent wreath is sometimes used on the sanctuary as a liturgical
symbol for this season. It can be placed on a table or preferably hung up in a way in which the whole
circle is visible. Prayers are used as each candle is lit on the Sundays of Advent.
How to Make an Advent Wreath
The wreath is really a circular candle-holder which
holds four candles. Some people place a white candle in the middle to represent Christmas Day. The base
can be made simply out of either wood or styrofoam. The base is covered with flexible green vines or
branches.
Week One
BE ON YOUR GUARD, STAY AWAKE
Advent means being prepared.
Advent Wreath: The Prophet’s Candle
The first candle reminds us of the prophets, those
special people who spoke God’s word to the people
and promised that a saviour would come.
Father, we thank you for sending us the gift of
your son, Jesus. Help us during these weeks of
Advent to get ready to celebrate Jesus’ birth.
May we spread the good news of Jesus’ coming to all
those we know. Amen.
Week Two
PREPARE A WAY FOR THE LORD
Advent means being called to change our life.
Advent Wreath: The Bethlehem Candle
The second candle lit is the Bethlehem candle to
remind us of Jesus’ birth and that this birth
took place in a stable.
Father, when we pray we expect that you will
give us everything we ask for. But sometimes
we do not get what we want. Everyone
expected that Jesus would have a royal birth,
but instead he was born in an old stable. Help us to understand that
following Jesus is often difficult and not what we expect. Amen.
Week Three
HE CAME AS A WITNESS…TO SPEAK FOR THE LIGHT
Advent means telling the Good News.
Advent Wreath: The Shepherd’s Candle
The third candle recalls how the shepherds, even though they
were afraid, believed in Jesus and told everyone
about his coming.
Father, as the Shepherd’s candle adds more
light to our room, help us to think of ways
to share that light with others. Make your light shine through us so
that, like the shepherds, we can tell others about Jesus. Amen.
Week Four
MARY, DO NOT BE AFRAID; YOU HAVE WON
GOD’S FAVOUR
Advent means waiting.
Advent Wreath: The Angel Candle
The angels have a special place in
Scripture announcing the birth
of Jesus, first to Mary, then to
the shepherds, after which
they sang their song of
praise: ‘Glory to God in the highest’.
Father, may our time of waiting be rewarded, may our need
for love be answered, may our hope in the future be
renewed. With the angels may we joyfully announce the
birth of Jesus. Amen.