If you’ve ever seen a circle of candles on a wreath during December, you’ve already encountered one of the most beloved Catholic traditions of the season — the Advent wreath.
Each candle on that wreath has a meaning, a color, and a purpose. But more than that, each candle helps us enter into the rhythm of the Church’s waiting — a steady, growing light that leads us toward the joy of Christmas.
The Meaning of the Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath is rich in symbolism:
- Its circular shape represents God’s eternal love — without beginning or end.
- The evergreen branches signify hope and everlasting life.
- And the four candles mark the four Sundays of Advent — each one inviting us to prepare our hearts for Christ in a deeper way.
Lighting the candles each week is a simple but powerful way to mark time during Advent, especially in homes, dorms, and small-group settings.
The Four Advent Candles and Their Meanings
The First Candle — The Candle of Hope (Purple)
The first Sunday of Advent begins with hope — the longing for the promised Messiah.
This candle reminds us that God keeps His promises and that Christ is our ultimate hope, even when the world feels dark or uncertain.
FOCUS tip: As the liturgical year begins, invite your small group or roommates to pray together: “Lord, increase our hope in You.”
The Second Candle — The Candle of Peace (Purple)
The second candle represents peace — not just the absence of conflict, but the deep, abiding peace that comes from trusting God.
It calls us to prepare the way of the Lord by creating space for peace in our hearts and relationships.
FOCUS tip: Think of one area of life that needs Christ’s peace — and invite Him into it this week.
The Third Candle — The Candle of Joy (Rose)
The third Sunday of Advent is called Gaudete Sunday, from the Latin word “rejoice.”
The rose-colored candle reminds us that Christ’s coming is near and that joy — not anxiety — is the true mark of a heart prepared for Him.
FOCUS tip: Share one joy or answered prayer from this semester with your Bible study or team. Gratitude cultivates joy.
The Fourth Candle — The Candle of Love (Purple)
The final candle symbolizes love — the love of God made visible in the Incarnation.
As we approach Christmas, this candle invites us to reflect on the perfect love that entered the world in Christ, born in a humble manger.
FOCUS tip: Ask yourself, “How can I show Christ’s love to someone this week?” — through service, forgiveness, or prayer.
Optional: The White Candle — The Christ Candle
Some Advent wreaths include a fifth candle, placed in the center. This white candle is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to celebrate the birth of Jesus — the Light of the World who fulfills every Advent longing.
How to Use the Advent Candles in Daily Life
You don’t need to be at home for Advent to make it meaningful. Whether you’re in a dorm, an apartment, or a mission post, here are simple ways to make the Advent candles part of your prayer life:
- Set up a small wreath with battery candles or tealights if open flames aren’t allowed.
- Light one candle each week and read the Sunday Gospel or a reflection together.
- Pray as a community: “Come, Lord Jesus.”
- Reflect on the theme (hope, peace, joy, love) and how it applies to your mission, relationships, and prayer.
- Add music or Scripture: Sing “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” or read Isaiah’s prophecies of the Messiah.
Why Advent Candles Matter
Each week, as the light grows brighter, we’re reminded that Christ’s coming is near.
The darkness doesn’t last forever — hope, peace, joy, and love increase as we move closer to the birth of Jesus.
For students and missionaries, Advent candles are a simple but profound reminder that God is still at work in the waiting. The light grows — not because we make it happen, but because He comes to us.
Additional Resources
The FOCUS Blog is your hub for all things Christmas! Got a question, like “When Is Advent 2025?” Or, maybe you’re looking for some resources to help you live out Advent/Christmas as intentional as you can, like these:
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