how to light advent candles – kudupinter World News Network

Advent marks the beginning of the Catholic Church’s liturgical cycle, a four-week period of deep spiritual preparation and reflection before the celebration of Christmas. This season, whose name derives from the Latin “adventus” (coming or arrival), involves certain practices, such as the lighting of the Advent wreath, a central element of homes and churches. Many people wonder how to light candles there.

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This cycle seeks to prepare the hearts of the faithful for the birth of Jesus, not only in its historical dimension, but also in its liturgical dimension, which anticipates his second coming. The tradition is rich in symbolism that guides the faithful on their journey to Christmas Eve.

What is the Advent wreath and what is its main symbolism?

It is a circular arrangement, usually made of pine or fir branches, which supports four candles. Its circular shape represents the eternity of God and the eternal life he promises, while the green branches symbolize the hope and new life brought by the birth of Christ. It is an object that helps Christians prepare for Christmas, with its origins in ancient European pagan traditions adapted by Christianity to mark this sacred time.

How many candles are there in the Advent wreath and what color are they?

The Advent wreath has four candles. Typically, three of them are purple and one is pink.

Each color has a specific meaning in the liturgy. Purple symbolizes penance and spiritual preparation, evoking the austerity necessary for the conversion of the faithful. Pink is used on the third Sunday and represents the joy and happiness of the imminent arrival of Christmas.

How are the Advent wreath candles lit each Sunday?

The candles in the Advent wreath are lit gradually, one each Sunday. Here is the process for lighting the candles:

On the first Sunday of Advent, the first purple candle is lit, marking the beginning of the waiting period.
On the second Sunday, the second purple candle is lit, at the same time as the first.
On the third Sunday, the two previous purple candles are lit, in addition to the pink candle, called the “candle of joy”.
Finally, on the fourth Sunday, the four candles (the three purple and the pink) are lit to symbolize the proximity of the birth of Jesus.

This sequence symbolizes the gradual increase in light as Christmas approaches. It represents the proximity of Christ, “the light of the world”.

What are the two stages of preparation for Advent?

The Church divides Advent into two stages with distinct theological purposes. The first part, which extends from the first Sunday until December 17, has an eschatological character. The reflection focuses on the “second coming” of Christ at the end of time and invites preparation for his glorious return.

The second part, from December 18 to 24, is known as Christmas “Holy Week.” During these days, the Church intensifies its preparations, focused on meditation on the mystery of the Incarnation and the historical events that preceded the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem.