The Advent wreath is a common tradition among Christians celebrating the liturgical holiday of Advent. Advent wreaths are typically circular, with four candles representing each of the Sundays leading up to Christmas. Traditionally, three of the candles are purple or blue, and a fourth is rose-colored. Each Sunday during the Advent period, a candle is lit to mark the passage of time before the birth of Jesus.Catholic Education: The History of the Advent Wreath
This page contains information about wreaths for Advent, including historical information, where they can be purchased and how to use them during the Advent celebration.
Advent Wreath Blessing
"O God, by whose word all things are sanctified, pour forth thy blessing upon this wreath and grant that we who use it may prepare our hearts for the Coming of Christ, and may receive from thee abundant graces. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen."Christmas & Advent 2008: The Advent Wreath
Making Advent Wreaths
Advent wreaths can often be found in stores in the months leading up to Christmas, but you can also make your own at home. Consider arranging some evergreens and adding Advent candles in the traditional colors of rose and purple. Once you have completed your own Advent wreath, you may wish to say an Advent prayer asking God to bless the wreath as you prepare for the coming of Jesus.
Celebrating the Advent Season
Author Lisa Robinson discusses the celebration of Advent in this interview clip from the CBN Network. Robinson talks about the various devotionals she and her family celebrate during each Sunday of Advent. One of those devotionals includes the making of Advent wreaths.
References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
Advent begins on the Sunday nearest to November 30
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Advent 2010
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Advent wreaths are typically circular and made of evergreensCatholic Education: The History of the Advent Wreath
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Circular shape of the wreath represents everlasting lifeChristmas & Advent 2008: The Advent Wreath
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Four candles traditionally adorn the wreath
three purple candles and a pink or rose-colored candleCatholic Education: The History of the Advent Wreath
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Purple candles are lit on the first, second and fourth Sunday of AdventCatholic Education: The History of the Advent Wreath
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Rose-colored candle is lit on the third Sunday to mark the midpoint of AdventCatholic Education: The History of the Advent Wreath
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Many Christian families light the Advent wreath just prior to meals and follow with a special Advent prayerCatholic Education: The History of the Advent Wreath
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Advent wreaths are believed to have originated in Germany and ScandinaviaAmerican Catholic: Advent FAQs
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Originally used during winter solstice celebrationsAmerican Catholic: Advent FAQs
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Advent wreaths can be homemade or purchased
