The Advent wreath

The Advent wreath is one of the most familiar symbols of the Advent season. Its circular shape, often made of evergreen branches, represents God’s eternal love and the hope of everlasting life. As each week of Advent passes, candles are lit on the wreath to mark the growing light of Christ coming into the world. For week-by-week Bible verses and activities, click here.

The candles and their colors

     • First Week of Advent: A purple candle is lit, symbolizing hope and our expectation as we prepare for Christ’s coming.

     • Second Week of Advent: Another purple candle is lit, representing peace and our readiness to welcome Christ into our lives.

     • Third Week of Advent: A rose (pink) candle is lit. Known as Gaudete Sunday (“Rejoice Sunday”), it reflects the joy that Christmas is near.

     • Fourth Week of Advent: The final purple candle is lit, reminding us of love, the heart of Christ’s coming into the world.

Some wreaths include a fifth candle, the white Christ candle, placed in the center. This candle is lit on Christmas Day to signify the birth of Jesus, the Light of the World.

     • Advent wreaths and candles can be purchased at CatholicCompany.com.

     • Visit the Dynamic Catholic to learn how to bless your Advent wreath and for the weekly prayers.

     • Download the Diocese of Erie weekly simple devotional and prayer guide.

     • Hallow also offers Catholic Advent Prayers for the 2025 Advent Season.