Advent is a preparation for Christmas, observed by various Christian denominations. Advent candles vary in color and number, with Roman Catholics using purple or blue for three candles and pink for the fourth. Some Protestant groups use five candles to represent different themes. Families may gather each evening to light the Advent wreath and read prayers or scripture readings.
Advent is a preparatory celebration for Christmas, which can last from four to six weeks. While often associated with Roman Catholicism, a number of Christian denominations observe Advent in some way. These include many Protestant groups and Eastern Orthodox groups. Advent candles, typically used to light the wreaths many people have in their homes for this “preparation” for Christ’s birth, can vary by denomination or individual practice.
In Roman Catholicism, Advent candles are four in number and can be easily purchased in various places, sometimes even through churches. They can be long tapers or shorter candles, depending on preference and the stability of the wreath they are placed in. The color of the candles can be very important.
Roman Catholics may use purple or royal blue for the three candles and a pink candle for the fourth. Purple connects with the color of Lent and reminds celebrants of Christ’s entire life, from birth to crucifixion. In other churches, purple may also be a symbol of repentance, although it is not uncommon for many churches to use blue.
The lighting of the colored candles takes place every night with prayers, although some people only use the wreath once a week. Typically, the three purple or blue candles are lit in the first three weeks of Advent, and then the pink one is lit in the last week before Christmas. Some churches and individuals vary this. Unlike the idea of repentance, rose-colored candles typically symbolize joy and anticipation in Christ’s birth.
Instead of focusing on repentance or Lent, some Christian traditions have different interpretations of the symbolism of Advent candles. In some Protestant denominations, where five candles may be used instead, each week’s candle represents an idea or theme. The first candle is the candle of hope, and the others are the candles of the way, of joy and of peace. The fifth candle represents the light of Christ and is lit on Christmas Day or Christmas Eve. Unlike other Advent candles, this one sits directly in the center of the wreath.
Some people choose completely different colored Advent candles and can celebrate the preparatory weeks before Christmas in a more secular way. Three to four white candles and one red are a popular variation on the colors, or red and green candles can be used. Tradition and symbolism can really belong to the single family that celebrates Advent.
In most Christian groups that commemorate this time, families may gather each evening to light the Advent wreath and may choose various prayers or scripture readings to read each evening. Other people simply light Advent candles once a week. Many Christians feel that this focus on the religious aspect of the Christmas holidays helps keep people in touch with the spiritual importance of Christmas.
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