The Meaning Behind the Advent Candles and Colors

As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, the Church invites us into the quiet beauty of Advent — a season of hopeful waiting and joyful preparation for the coming of Christ. 

Each Sunday, we gather around the Advent wreath, lighting candles whose colors and glow tell the story of our faith: a story of promise, repentance, joy, and love.

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The Advent Wreath: A Circle of Hope

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The circular shape of the Advent wreath reminds us of God’s eternal love. without beginning or end. Traditionally made of evergreen branches, the wreath symbolizes everlasting life in Christ, even in the midst of winter’s barrenness. Each candle lit in the weeks leading up to Christmas draws us closer to the radiant light of Christ, born into the darkness of the world.

The Advent wreath holds four candles — three purple and one rose — each representing one week of Advent. Some families also include a fifth white candle, the Christ Candle, lit on Christmas Day to celebrate the birth of our Savior.

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First Candle: The Prophecy Candle (Hope)

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The first purple candle, lit on the First Sunday of Advent, symbolizes hope. It reminds us of the prophet Isaiah who foretold the coming of the Messiah. This candle calls us to place our trust in God’s promises and to look forward to the day when Christ will come again in glory.

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” — Isaiah 9:2

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Second Candle: The Bethlehem Candle (Faith)

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The second purple candle represents faith and is often called the Bethlehem Candle, recalling Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. It reminds us to prepare our hearts for Christ, trusting in God’s plan even when the road feels uncertain.

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.” — Isaiah 7:14

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Third Candle: The Shepherd’s Candle (Joy)

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The rose candle, lit on the Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday), represents joy. The word Gaudete means “rejoice” — a reminder that our waiting is almost over.  While the color purple in the Catholic liturgy symbolizes repentance, this week’s pink hue breaks through the solemnness with the bright anticipation of Christ’s coming.

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.” — Philippians 4:4

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Fourth Candle: The Angel’s Candle (Peace)

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The final purple candle symbolizes peace and is sometimes called the Angel’s Candle, reminding us of the message the angels proclaimed: “Peace on earth, good will toward men.” As we light this candle, we prepare our hearts to welcome the Prince of Peace.

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” — Luke 2:14

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The Christ Candle (Purity and Light)

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If your wreath includes a fifth candle, the white Christ Candle is lit on Christmas Day. Its pure white color represents the sinless nature of Jesus, the true Light who came into the world to banish darkness and bring us eternal life.

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5

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The Advent wreath isn’t just a decoration — it’s a prayerful way to mark time with the rhythm of the Church. Whether you light it at the dinner table, during evening prayer, or before bed, take a quiet moment each week to reflect on what each candle means for your heart and your family.

As the light of the wreath grows brighter each Sunday, may it remind us that Christ’s light is drawing near — dispelling the darkness of sin and filling our homes with the warmth of His love.

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