30/11/2025
Advent 2025: The meaning of the wreath and its four candles
Sunday, November 30 marks the beginning of Advent 2025, a precious time of spiritual preparation for Christmas. Among the best-known liturgical symbols is the Advent wreath, with its four candles that accompany the Sundays as we await the birth of Jesus.
Here are 5 curiosities and meanings connected to the Advent wreath:
1. Ancient origins and Christian symbolism
The Advent wreath has its roots in an ancient pre-Christian European tradition, which involved lighting candles during the winter to invoke the return of the sun and warmth. The Church was able to transform this gesture into a sign of waiting for the true Light, Christ.
2. The circular shape: a sign of God’s eternal love
The circle is a shape without beginning or end—just like the love of God, which is eternal, infinite, and perfect. The shape of the wreath reminds us that God has neither beginning nor end and is always present in our lives.
3. The evergreen branches: a symbol of hope and life in Christ
The green branches, often pine or fir, recall eternal life, hope, and the living presence of Christ among us. During Advent, they invite us to grow in grace, faith, and inner preparation.
4. The four candles: the light of Christ advancing
Each Sunday of Advent, one candle is lit. The four candles represent the growing light as we approach Christmas: the darkness of sin and fear dissipates, giving way to the light of Jesus coming into the world.
5. The rose candle: the joy of the Lord who comes
Among the four candles, one is rose-colored: it is lit on the third Sunday of Advent, called Gaudete, meaning “rejoice.” This liturgical color expresses the joy for the Savior’s birth now near and encourages us to persevere on the spiritual path.