From my newest book, Advent Adventures, the Advent Wreath
Advent is a season for preparation for Christmas, a time of anticipation of Christ’s coming, a time of readying our homes and hearts for the Newborn King. It is especially important that children understand that Christmas is not just a time for parties, gifts, and festivities, but that Jesus is the reason for the season.
Advent begins the fourth Sunday before Christmas, which for most years means the last Sunday in November. It is a good way to transition between Thanksgiving celebrations and the Christmas season.
In some homes and churches, an ADVENT WREATH is used. Historically, this practice began in the 1600’s, although candles have represented “The Light coming into a dark world” for perhaps far longer. The wreath, a circle, represents an unending symbol, from creation to the end of time, God’s sovereign plan for our salvation.
The wreath consists of four candles set into a circle of evergreens, with a fifth candle, usually in the center, called the Christ candle. Each Sunday, one candle is lit as the father in the home reads the scripture, until ultimately all five candles are lit. They can also be lit at mealtimes during the week, with discussion of Jesus, the Light of the World.
Traditionally, four candles: three purple candles and one pink candle, are used. I prefer red candles which fit my Christmas décor.
In the center of the wreath sits a white candle. As a whole, these candles represent the coming of the light of Christ into the world.
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