Advent is approaching and with it the spiritual countdown to Christmas. On Sunday, December 7, thousands of Catholic families will gather to light the second candle of the Advent wreath, a gesture that for centuries has symbolized the inner preparation for the birth of Jesus. Although it is a deeply religious tradition, it has also become a family moment that invites calm, faith and personal renewal.
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The Advent wreath is a Christian symbol that accompanies the four weeks before Christmas. Its origin can be traced back to European communities in the 16th and 17th centuries, when a wreath of green branches – a symbol of life and hope – was used, accompanied by candles that were gradually lit each week. Over time, the church adopted this practice as an educational and spiritual resource to prepare the hearts of believers.
Each candle represents a week and a value: hope, faith, joy and love. The illuminated light reminds us that Christ is the “light of the world” and that faith illuminates the believer’s steps even in difficult times.
On this second Sunday of Advent, the candle of faith, also known as the Bethlehem candle, is lit. Its meaning is linked to the absolute trust of Mary and Joseph on the way to the birth of Jesus. It represents the inner willingness to be guided, even when the path appears uncertain.
This week’s traditional color is purple, a tone that evokes repentance, reflection and spiritual preparation. For this reason, it is cultivated both in parishes and in homes as a symbol of introspection and conversion.
With the second week, the tradition invites you to live with more serenity, gratitude and inner attention. Lighting the candle is not only a ritual act, but also a reminder to strengthen faith and renew hope, especially in the midst of everyday demands.
In addition, the crown promotes family unity. Typically, many families gather around it to pray and share the progress of the liturgical time, making it a moment of spiritual and emotional connection.
For those who wish to accompany this gesture with a meaningful prayer, the following prayer is suggested, focusing on faith and trust:
“Lord, today we light this second candle with our hearts ready to trust You. May Your light penetrate our doubts, renew our faith and strengthen our hope in the midst of all difficulties. Illuminate our home with Your presence, guide our steps and teach us to wait serenely for Your arrival. May this flame be a reminder of Your love, your peace and the strength that only You can give us. Amen.”
In 2025, Advent Sundays will be celebrated as follows:
- First Sunday: November 30th
- Second Sunday: December 7th
- Third Sunday: December 14th
- Fourth Sunday: December 21st
Each week a different candle is lit, starting with the Candle of Hope. The second candle marks another step on the path to Christmas and reiterates the invitation to prepare the heart for the arrival of Jesus.
In the Christian tradition, every light lit has a spiritual purpose. The second candle reminds us that faith is strengthened step by step, just like the road to Bethlehem. It invites us to trust, to recognize the light even in the midst of difficulties, and to nourish our inner life with prayer.
In many households, this Sunday is accompanied by Bible readings, songs and reflections that help deepen the meaning of Advent. The celebration of this day marks the halfway point before Christmas and encourages believers to keep the flame of faith alive.