4 candles of advent names and colours

The Advent wreath is a popular custom that originated in Germany in the 16th century. It consists of an evergreen wreath and four candles (traditionally, three purple candles and one rose one).

The candles are lit every night during Advent—one candle the first week, then an additional candle for each successive week.

4 candles of advent names

The Blessing of the Advent Wreath

Before lighting it for the first time, you should bless your Advent wreath. Once you've done that, you can light the Advent wreath.

How to Light Your Advent Wreath

1. Make the Sign of the Cross: As with any prayer or Catholic ritual, you should begin by making the Sign of the Cross.
2. Light the Appropriate Number of Candles
3. In the second week of Advent, light two purple candles.
4. In the third week of Advent (beginning with Gaudete Sunday), light two purple candles and one rose candle.
5. In the fourth week, light all four candles.
6. Many families have adopted the following custom:
   1. • The youngest child lights the candle in the first week.
7. The oldest child li
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