Advent Wreaths

Advent Wreath History

The Advent wreath probably has its origins in the customs of pre-Christian Germanic people, who used wreaths with lit candles during December in anticipation of the light of the coming spring. Eastern European Christians kept the tradition alive, and, by the 16th century, Advent wreaths were used to prepare for the coming of Jesus, the light of the world.

How to use an Advent Wreath

Each week you could:

a) Light a candle on each Sunday evening of Advent, or each time you gather for the evening meal, Advent devotion or Faith 5 in Advent, saying a short prayer. The light of the candles represents the light coming into the world as we prepare to celebrate Jesus' birth.

b) Read or sing a verse of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.”

c) Reflect on a question by candlelight:

    Week 1 - Hope: What does it mean to have hope as we wait for Jesus' birth?
    Week 2 - Peace: What does it mean to have peace as we wait for Jesus' birth?
    Week 3 - Joy: What does it mean to have joy as we wait for Jesus' birth?
    Week 4 - Love: What does it mean to have love as we wait for Jesus' birth?

d) Read an Advent devotion for that week

e) Reflect on your weekly Advent Bible readings

f) Share your Faith 5: Share, Read, Talk, Pray, Bless

Buy an Advent Wreath

If you don't have the time or the inclination to make an Advent Wreath you can purchase one. For example, they are available on Amazon (don't forget to also order some candles).

Make an Advent Wreath

Make an Advent wreath and place it in the middle of the dining room table. You can keep it really simple or you can get very crafty. An Advent wreath consists of:

• a frame, tray or plate holding four candles placed inside a circle of evergreens.
• the greenery in the wreath symbolizes the promised new life in Jesus.
• the four candles denote the four Sundays of Advent.

Advent Wreath Options

• Super simple: Print one for the kids to color (and purchase some Tea Light or votive candles).
• Simple: Four votive candles and one pillar candle on a plate/tray of your choice.
• Crafty: "Modern" Mason jar Advent Wreath.
• Go to YouTube and search for "Advent Wreaths" and see a variety of DIY ideas!