THE
P RTAL
December 2015
Page 9
Advent and
the Advent Wreath
An Advent Reflection by Donato Tallo
During Advent,
one of the most iconic symbols found in many churches and some Christian
homes is the Advent wreath. It is circular in shape, reminding us that God’s love is eternal, constant
and never-ending, while the use of greenery on the wreath reminds us of the beauty of creation and all living
things. The lighting of a new candle each Sunday is a symbolic ritual that can help to guide Christians on
their journey towards the great and holy celebration of Christmas.
But what exactly does each candle symbolise?
The first candle
on the Advent wreath symbolises hope. As Christians,
we place all our hope in our Lord Jesus Christ who
is not only our maker but also our saviour.
The second candle
symbolises peace. As Christians, we find all our
peace in our Lord Jesus Christ and should do
our very best to share that peace with others
around us.
The third candle
symbolises love. As Christians, we find all our
love in our Lord Jesus Christ and have a duty to
love those around us.
The fourth candle
symbolises joy. As Christians, all our joy comes from
our Lord Jesus Christ, whose birth we are preparing to
celebrate.
The fifth candle
is often known as the Christ candle and it is not lit until
the first mass of Christmas. It is white, and reminds
us that Christ is our saviour and is the Holy Lamb of
God, born without sin; the one who came to save us.
On the first, second and fourth Sundays of Advent
purple candles are lit, while on the third Sunday
(Gaudete Sunday) the pink candle is lit. As mentioned
above, the white candle is reserved for Christmas itself.
The use of light in the Advent wreath reminds us
that Christ is the true light that came into the