Advent: What Is an Advent Wreath?

An Advent wreath is symbolic of many spiritual principles.

Because so many different Christian traditions practice Advent, the symbolism will vary. Possible meanings for the Advent wreath include:

• Evergreens symbolize everlasting or continuous life
• A circle symbolizes the eternity of God
• Purple candles symbolize prayer, repentance, or preparation
• The pink candle represents joy in the middle of longing

If the Advent wreath has a white candle, this is the Christ candle and represents Jesus Christ.

The Advent wreath is a symbol of  life and light. Christians believe that Jesus brings life to humans and that Jesus is the light of the world. 

The Advent wreath is also a way to mark time. One candle is lit for each of the four Sundays of Advent. (One candle on the first Sunday, two on the second Sunday, etc.) Each week, the light gets brighter as more candles are lit. This increasing brightness is a reminder that Christ’s coming is getting closer.  ​