Symbolism of Advent wreath elements
Many elements of the Advent wreath have symbolism, sometimes more than one meaning, sometimes contradictory meaning.
| evergreen branches | hope; eternal/new life in Christ |
| circular shape | no beginning, no end; eternity; God |
| candles | period of waiting four Sundays of Advent (which is itself symbolic of the four centuries of waiting from time of Malachi to time of Christ;) Christ is seen as light of the world |
| increasing accumulation of light | gradual revelation to Israel of the coming of Christ |
| blue candles | traditional color of Mary; night sky as it lightens toward dawn; hope the Messiah brings to the world; penitent color other than purple used in Lent |
| purple candles | royalty/soveriegnity of Christ, "Prince of Peace;" penitence |
| pink candle | joy (celebratory rather than penitent readings on this day) |
| white candle(s) | Christ; daylight; celebration; Christmas season |
| first candle | hope |
| second candle | peace |
| third candle | joy |
| fourth candle | love |