What is the history and use of the Advent wreath?
The Advent wreath visually marks the time leading up to Christmas and symbolizes the increasing light as Christ draws near to us. The use of such wreaths began as a family devotional practice in German homes in the 1600s. Widespread liturgical use only dates back to the middle of the 20th century. Each of the four purple candles around the periphery of the wreath marks one of the Sundays in Advent; the white Christ candle in the center is lit on Christmas Eve. The Book of Common Worship (165-166) provides scripture readings to accompany the lighting of each candle. You may also consider singing subsequent verses of the same Advent hymn each week as the candles are lit. Some Advent wreaths include a pink candle. This custom can be traced to medieval practice that set aside the third Sunday in Lent (and later, Advent) as an occasion of joy and a respite from the rigors of the penitential season. If your Advent wreath has a pink candle, you may light it on the third Sunday of Advent. Over
