Advent Wreath Symbolism: What the Circle, Evergreens, and Candles Mean

The post explains the Advent wreath as a popular tradition that many families and churches use to mark the four weeks before Christmas. Each week a candle is lit, and the author describes the wreath as a reminder of the hope and joy that is coming. Advent itself is presented as a season of expectation, celebration, and hope tied to the birth of Jesus and the promise of his later ministry, with some traditions also looking ahead to his second coming.

The author describes the main elements of the wreath and what they symbolize. The circle points to God’s unending love, mercy, and faithfulness. Evergreen branches, which keep their leaves through winter, stand for the everlasting life found in Christ. The candles grow in number week by week, reflecting growing anticipation, and their light reflects the light of Christ entering the world. A larger white candle, often lit on Christmas Day, is described as representing Jesus as the light of the world.

The post also notes that candle traditions vary. Some households light one candle each day, while others keep a single large candle burning through December. The most common pattern uses four candles, often purple with a rose or pink third candle, though colors differ from place to place. The author shares a popular account of a Lutheran minister in 1839 who made a wreath for children from a cart wheel to help them count down to Christmas.

Finally, the post explains additional decorations. Holly is linked to the crown of thorns, and red berries point to Christ’s sacrifice. Pinecones, seeds, and nuts are described as signs of new life. Taken together, the author suggests, these elements point to the new life and salvation offered through Jesus’s death and resurrection.

Source: Read the original report