Catholic Identity

The Advent Wreath

You may have noticed the advent wreath and purple prayer cloth on our prayer focus in the office. The display all holds important meaning within the Catholic faith. Here is a brief explanation of the Advent Wreath. 

Symbolism of Wreath

Violet Prayer Cloth Purple represents prayer and presentation. More a mauve/violet colour than that of Lent.

Circular Wreath With no beginning and no ending, reminding us that God is everlasting.

And His love is everlasting.

Candles Strengthen the image of hope as the light grows each week

1st Sunday – Violet

2nd Sunday Violet

3rd Sunday Rose

4th Sunday Violet

Centre Christmas White (not always included)

Evergreen The evergreens used for the wreath itself are a reminder of continuous life.

The shaping of them into a circle reinforces that meaning.

Rose Candle Gaudete Sunday

Gaudete means Rejoicing.

Violet (purple) The Violet candle represents the royalty and majesty of Jesus Christ as King. Purple also represents prayer and preparation.

Four (4) candles Four (4) weeks of Advent. One Candle for each week.

An additional candle is lit during each subsequent week until, by the

last Sunday before Christmas, all four candles are lit.