Blogdyak

Today is Sunday, November 27, 2011. This Sunday however, is not just an ordinary church day for our Catholic brothers and sisters; it is the start of one of the most important seasons for us catholics - it is the beginning of the advent season -  the preparation for the coming of our savior Jesus Christ.

Brief History of Advent

The word Advent came from a Latin word adventus, meaning "coming", the coming for our savior Jesus Christ. It is the time of spiritually preparing while waiting for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas . Advent season lasts for four Sundays, with the last Sunday of advent ends at the last Sunday before Christmas Day. 

The True Meaning of Symbol of Advent

The main focus of the the entire season of advent is for us to spiritually prepare ourselves for the "coming" of our messiah or king Jesus Christ. Advent is more than just a 2000 years of Catholic history, it is about celebrating the truth about God, the revelation of God in Christ, whereby all of God's creation must be reconciled to God. Advent also symbolizes the spiritual journey of a person, as well as a congregation that Christ has come, He is in the world today, and He will come again in power and glory. 

This season is also marked by a great spirit of expectation, anticipation, preparation, and longing of the coming of Jesus Christ. You can read one nice article about the true meaning of advent here and here. 

The Advent Wreath

The very symbol of the season of advent observed by the catholic church is the advent wreath. Advent wreath or advent crown symbolizes the passage of the four weeks of advent. Advent wreath is a circular garland usually made from evergreen branches. One the wreath stands four candles: three purple candles and one pink candles lit every Sunday of advent. The wreath itself and the four candles in it bears unique and relevant symbolism in our life as a christian.

The evergreen leaves surrounding the advent wreath symbolizes eternity.

On the first Sunday of Advent, the first purple candle will be lit. This purple candle is called the "Prophecy Candle" as a remembrance of the prophets, primarily prophet Isaiah, who foretold the birth of Jesus Christ in scriptures. Lighting the candle also symbolizes hope and expectation in the coming of the Messiah.

On the second Sunday of Advent, the second purple candle will be lit (together with the first purple candle). Traditionally, the second purple candle is called the "Bethlehem Candle", symbolizing infant Christ's manger - the place where he was born. Lighting the second candle symbolizes love.

On the third Sunday of Advent, the lone rose-colored or pink candle will be lit (together with the first and second purple candles). This pink candle is also called the "Shepherd's Candle", and it represents joy.

On the fourth and last Sunday of Advent, the last purple candle will be lit (together with the other three candles). The last purple candle is also called the "Angel's Candle", representing peace.

Other versions of advent wreath includes a white candle on the center of the wreath, lit on Christmas eve. This white candle on the center will be lit on Christmas eve, together with the four advent candles. This white candle is called the "Christ's Candle", representing the life of Jesus Christ that has come to the world. The white color represents purity as Jesus Christ is sinless and spotless - the only qualification of a Pure Savior. 

Making your own advent wreath in your homes is a good way to bring advent's true meaning within your households. Of course together with spiritual preparations such as deep prayers, doing good deeds and following the words of God, you will be having the most meaningful Christmas in your life.

It has become a family tradition for us to make our own advent wreath inside our house, placing it in our altar. We've been doing this for 4 years now, and here's a sample of our own advent wreath last year.