Religious Education

Advent is the time before Christmas. It begins four Sundays before Christmas Day and ends on Christmas Day. It is a time of preparation for Christmas. The Advent wreath is made from leaves which are twisted to form a circle. The circular shape is a symbol that there is no beginning or end to God’s love for the world. Candles are put into the wreath. Four candles are put around the wreath and often a fifth candle is put in the middle. A candle is lit each Sunday before Christmas Day. If there is a fifth candle, it is lit on Christmas Day. There are three purple candles, one pink candle and a white candle.

Week 1 – a purple candle is lit. This symbolises hope with the ‘Prophet’s Candle’ reminding people that Jesus is coming. 

Week 2 – a purple candle is lit. This symbolises faith with the ‘Bethlehem Candle’ and remembers Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem.

Week 3 – a pink candle is lit. This is known as the Candle of Joy or the ‘Shepherd’s Candle’ and represents the joy the world experiences at the coming birth of Jesus. 

Week 4 – a purple candle is lit. This symbolises peace and is called the ‘Angel’s Candle’. It reminds us of the message of the angels, ‘Peace on earth, good will toward men’.

Kind regards

Mrs Margaret Maher

Religious Education Leader