Advent candles
Advent (from Lat. Adventus – input) is the name of the period of Advent taken among Christians Catholic Church and some Protestant denominations. Advent is the waiting time that precedes the celebration of Christmas, during which the faithful prepare for the holiday.
Advent candles symbolize the light of God luminous on our world with the birth of his Son. The four advent candles in a circle represent the waiting period – four Sundays of Advent, which, in turn, represent four centuries of waiting, from the time of Malachi to the birth of Christ.
Light of advent candles
Advent candles color varies according to tradition, but usually it is – three purple or blue candles, combined with ornaments of this church during Advent, and one – the pink candle. One of the purple Advent candles lit on the first Sunday of Advent, read out a passage from Scripture, followed by a brief analysis of the text read, and all are called to prayer. The next Sunday, first re-ignite the old spark, and then attach a new one. The pink candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent.
Light from the Advent candles by itself becomes an important symbol of the season. The light reminds us that Jesus is the Light of the world which illuminates the darkness of our lives and brings newness, life and hope. The process of candle lighting also symbolizes the various aspects of our expectations. Light candles throughout the four-week period represent the retreat of fear of darkness and despair and dissolution of the shadows of sin to the extent that, as the light pours into this world. The flame of each new candle reminds parishioners that now something is happening, but still more needs to happen in the future. Finally, the light has come into the world, clearly visible, as well as the candle of Christ, lit on Christmas Day. Parishioners rejoice that the ancient promise fulfilled.