Advent is a season of preparation and anticipation. Prepare your heart to receive Jesus as if this is the first day of His arrival. Anticipate the coming of Christ, not only at Christmas, but in his future second coming to complete His kingdom come. The Advent Season is all about reflecting on how we can prepare our hearts and homes for Christ’s birth in the world as it is today. It is a time for faith communities and families to remember, through prayer, reflections, special music, and good deeds what the true meaning of Jesus’ birth is. This year, Advent starts on the last Sunday of November, when we light the candle of Hope.
Each candle represents something important in the birth and life of Jesus.
- The first candle symbolizes hope. It is called the “Prophets’ Candle” in remembrance of the prophets, especially Isaiah, who foretold the birth of Christ. It represents the expectation felt in anticipation of the coming Messiah.
- The second candle represents love. It is called the “Bethlehem Candle” as a reminder of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem.
- The third candle symbolizes joy. It is called the “Shepherd’s Candle”, and is meant to remind us of the joy that the world experienced at the birth of Jesus.
- The final candle, the “Angel’s Candle,” symbolizes peace. It reminds us of the message of the angels: “Peace on Earth, Good Will Toward Men.”
- The white candle is placed in the middle of the wreath and lit on Christmas Eve. This candle is called the “Christ Candle” and represents the life of Christ. The color white is for purity—because Christ is our sinless, pure Savior.