liturgical color is purple-purple shows the majesty which heralds the coming of the King of
Kings(2)
Light a candle each week of Advent with a litany being said. Each week you relight the candles
from the previous weeks as well as the candle for that week.
Symbolism of the Advent wreath
Evergreens
- ancient symbol of immortality, life and growth (2)
- everlasting love of God (3)
Circle
Symbolizes unending - eternity (God is, was and always will be)(2)
Light
- Symbol of God's presence and darkness its opposite, a symbol of His absence(2)
- Darkness stands for lack of salvation which is overcome by the arrival of Christ the Messiah
(Isa.9:2)(Romans 13:12)(2)
- The four candles spread light into darkness(4)
Some Sunday School Materials say four purple candles, but the Epworth UMC church service
uses 3 purple and 1 pink candle. The candles are lit in the following order:
- purple-hope candle-symbolized by the four pointed star(5) Also sometimes called the Prophet's candle.
- purple-love-heart
- pink-joy (pink is color Methodists use to symbolize joy)(6)-joy biblically means news of a new
life, therefore I have used an angel for a symbol. If you find an official one please let me
know.
- purple-peace-dove
On Christmas Eve the wreath in church will have a white candle in the center. The white stands
for purity and joy(2). It is known as the Christ candle(2)
When the candles from the previous weeks are relighted, it is symbolic of the coming of Christ
bringing light into darkness. It is also said to represent
NOTE: Advent starts December 3, 2000
References:
A Daily Devotion for Advent is available during the Advent season.
Chrismons are a very
special kind of symbol seen during Advent and Christmas.
This web site is designed & maintained by Keith and Betty Holman [email]
Last Modified November 30, 2000
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