Symbolism of the Advent Wreath

The four candles represent the 4,000 years prior to Christ's coming and the four weeks of Advent.

The unlighted candles represent the dark ages before Christ's coming.

The lighted candles represent Christ, the Light of the World. Each week we light one more candle and that represents the idea that the coming of Christ is closer.

The circular form of the wreath symbolizes that God has no beginning and no end.

The green of the boughs indicates hope--just as the green of spring indicates new life.

The word Advent means the coming of promise.