Advent Wreath Meaning and Traditions

Understanding the symbols that guide us through the four weeks of Advent

by Director of Campus Ministry Lynn Kittridge
Edited by the Marketing and Communications Team

The season of Advent invites families to slow down, reflect and prepare their hearts for the coming of Jesus at Christmas. In a world where holiday decorations appear as early as October, Advent offers a meaningful way to keep Christ at the center of the season. Whether this is a long-standing tradition in your home or one you’re embracing for the first time, the Advent wreath is a beautiful place to begin.

What is the Advent Wreath?

The Advent wreath, a tradition originating in Germany and evolving in significance throughout the Middle Ages, remains a rich symbol of the season today. It is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Advent season.

Each part of the wreath carries deep meaning:

• The circular shape represents God's infinite and unending love.
• Evergreen branches symbolize the everlasting life that God promises His people.

Together, these elements remind us that Christ’s love is constant and enduring, no matter the season of life.

What Do the Advent Candles Mean?

The four candles—three purple and one pink—mark the four weeks of Advent. Lighting each candle weekly offers a visual and prayerful rhythm that guides us toward Christmas.

Hope (First Week of Advent)

The first purple candle is lit on the first Sunday of Advent and remains lit each night thereafter, symbolizing hope in the anticipation of the Messiah's coming. 

“Once in our world, a stable had something in it that was bigger than our whole world.” – C.S. Lewis

Peace (Second Week of Advent)

The second purple candle represents the peace that Christ brings to the world and into our hearts.

“May we be in this world a ray of that light which shone forth from Bethlehem, bringing joy and peace to the hearts of all men and women.” – Pope Francis

Joy (Third Week of Advent - Gaudete Sunday)

The pink candle is lit on Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete means “rejoice,” and this candle calls us to shout “Hooray!" and celebrate that Christmas is near.

“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see — I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.’” (Luke 2:10-12)

Love (Fourth Week of Advent)

The final purple candle reflects the message proclaimed by the angels at Jesus’ birth: “Peace on earth, goodwill towards all!”

"Advent is a journey towards Bethlehem. May we let ourselves be drawn by the light of God." - Pope Francis

The Christ Candle

Many families also add a central white candle, lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the true light of the world. 

Lighting each candle throughout Advent helps families prepare spiritually for Christmas, offering a simple way to reflect on hope, peace, joy and love.

Advent Mass at Eastside Catholic 

Eastside Catholic School will bless our Advent wreath at the Advent Mass (also known as the Junior Class and Winter Sports Teams Mass) on Thursday, December 4, at 2:15 pm in the Chapel. Parents and guardians are warmly invited to join us. 

Learn More About Advent

To explore more about the meaning and traditions of the Advent season, visit the Archdiocese of Seattle Advent 2025 Anticipation bulletin.