The first candle of Advent represents hope and marks the start of the four-week Christian preparation period before Christmas. This purple candle, lit on the first Sunday of Advent, symbolizes anticipation for Christ's birth.
Advent wreaths typically contain four candles representing different themes: hope, peace, joy, and love. Each week, a new candle is lit to those from previous weeks. The progressive lighting mirrors the growing anticipation of Christmas.
| Candle | Color | Meaning | Week Lit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hope | Purple | Anticipation of Christ's coming | First Sunday |
| Peace | Purple | Christ as Prince of Peace | Second Sunday |
| Joy | Pink | Rejoicing in God's presence | Third Sunday |
| Love | Purple | God's love for humanity | Fourth Sunday |
| Christ Candle | White | Celebration of Christ's birth | Christmas Eve |
The first candle's focus on hope reflects the biblical prophecy of Christ's coming. Many churches use this time for sermons about Old Proof prophecies and New Proof fulfillments. The gradual lighting of candles creates a tangible sense of progression toward Christmas.
I remember my first Advent as an adult - lighting that first candle felt like turning on a beacon in the winter darkness. The simple act grounded me in the season's deeper meaning beyond shopping and decorations.
Many assume all Advent candles are the same color, but traditional wreaths use three purple candles (representing penitence) and one pink (for joy). Some modern versions use blue instead of purple, but this varies by denomination.
Another confusion arises from the Christ candle - often a white candle in the center, lit on Christmas Eve. While not part of the four-week countdown, it completes the symbolic process through Advent.
Advent wreaths appear in churches worldwide, with origins traced to German Lutheran traditions from the 16th century. Families also use them at home as a daily reminder of the season's spiritual significance.
According to the Catholic Education Resource Center, the circular wreath itself symbolizes eternity, while the candles represent the light of God coming into the world. Evergreen branches traditionally used in the wreath signify everlasting life.
A typical Advent service might begin with lighting the first candle while singing "O Come, O Come Emmanuel." The pastor then reads Isaiah 9:6 ("For unto us a child is born...") and delivers a sermon connecting this prophecy to modern hopes for Christ's return.
The Christianity Today suggests families can improve the experience by adding devotional readings or carols each week as new candles are lit.