Why are Advent Candles Purple and Pink?

Advent, the time of preparation for the birth of Jesus, is rich in symbolism. One of the most prominent aspects of the Advent tradition is the use of candles. These candles come in different colors and each color has its own significance. While most candles are purple, some are pink or rose, representing joy and celebration. This guide will explore the reasons behind the use of purple and pink candles in Advent, and how they represent the journey from penance to joy.

Pink or Rose During Gaudete Sunday

During the third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday in the Catholic Church, the candles take on a different color - pink or rose. This change reflects a shift in the mood of the Advent season. Traditionally, the season of Advent is typified by penance, prayer, and sacrifice, symbolizing the need to prepare for the coming of Christ. However, on Gaudete Sunday, the lighter color of pink or rose serves as a natural transition to the joy and celebration that will follow.

The word 'Gaudete' in Latin means 'Rejoice.'1 Thus, this Sunday marks a reminder of celebration and hope, representing the joy that the world will experience at the birth of Jesus. This shift from purple to pink or rose effectively highlights the joy that is yet to come, serving as a symbol of anticipation and inspiration.

Purple Candles: Prophecy, Bethlehem, and Sacrifice

The other three Sundays in Advent involve the use of purple candles, which take on a deeper symbolism. Purple, liturgical in nature, symbolizes several important themes central to the Advent season. Here are the three purple candles and their meanings:

Candle 1: Prophecy Candle

Purple is the color of the first Sunday in Advent. This candle is known as the 'Prophecy Candle' and it symbolizes hope. The color represents the prophets who foretold the birth of Christ and prepared the world for His coming. On this Sunday, the focus is on the anticipation and hope surrounding the birth of Jesus.

Candle 2: Bethlehem Candle

The second purple candle is called the 'Bethlehem Candle.' This color serves as a reminder of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem. It signifies preparation and the significance of the location where Jesus was born. This candle encourages the faithful to remember the momentous event and the journey of faith that led to it.

Candle 4: Angel’s Candle

The fourth and final candle, also purple, is called the 'Angel’s Candle.' It symbolizes peace, heralding the message of the angels to the shepherds and the world. The peace brought by the birth of Jesus is the ultimate gift of Advent.

Additional Custom: The Shepherd's Candle

Some homes choose to include a pink rose candle, symbolizing the Shepherd's Candle, on the third Sunday. This candle is lit on Gaudete Sunday to highlight the joy and celebration linked to the coming of Christ. The rose or pink color is a reminder of the joy that the shepherds and the world experienced, as represented by the message of the angels.

A Solemn Exception: Mistletoe Candles

Interestingly, it's not uncommon for some Advent wreaths to include a fifth candle, often white - the Mistletoe Candle. This candle, placed in the center of the wreath, is meant to be lit on Christmas Eve. It represents the purity and holiness of Christ and the joy of His birth.

Conclusion

In summary, the use of purple and pink candles during Advent provides a profound visual and emotional journey, encapsulating themes of hope, preparation, joy, and peace. These candles not only serve as a reminder of the significance of Christ's birth but also guide us through the season with a sense of anticipation and joy.

References:

Latin Dictionary - Gaudete