Advent Wreath

The Advent wreath has its roots in the pre-Christian practices of northern Europe. People sought the return of the sun in the dark time of the year (at the winter solstice) by lighting candles and fires. As early as the Middle Ages, Christians used fire and light to represent Christ’s coming into the world. Using this same symbolism, the Advent wreath developed a few centuries ago in Germany as a sign of the waiting and hopeful expectation of the return in glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. The wreath, a circle, came to represent the eternal victory over death through Jesus Christ. The evergreens were a sign of the faithfulness of God to God’s people, even in death, and the lighted candles were a reminder of the light of Christ brought into the world. 

This symbolism can be just as strong for us today. As is the case with all symbols, they speak most loudly to remind us of God’s promises of life when they are drawn directly out of our daily experience and environment. One should consider using only natural materials from God’s creation when making an Advent wreath. Evergreens come in many varieties and may be treated with a flame retardant substance. Branches of holly, laurel, and other green shrubs, which retain their freshness longer than pine, may also be used. The circular shape, a symbol of eternal life, is most important. Using an alternative shape, such as a log, would diminish the meaning of the symbol, which is no longer a circle. 

Advent Wreath Blessing
The blessing of an Advent Wreath takes place on the First Sunday of Advent or on the evening before the First Sunday of Advent. When the blessing of the Advent Wreath is celebrated in the home, it is appropriate that it be blessed by a parent or another member of the family. 

All make the sign of the cross as the Leader says: 
Our help is in the name of the Lord. 

Response (R/.) Who made heaven and earth. 

Then the Scripture from Isaiah is read:

Listen to the words of the Prophet Isaiah: 
The people who walked in darkness 
have seen a great light; 
Upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom 
a light has shone. 
You have brought them abundant joy 
and great rejoicing. 
As they rejoice before you as at the harvest, 
as people make merry when dividing spoils. 
For a child is born to us, a son is given us; 
upon his shoulder dominion rests. 
They name him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, 
Father-Forever, Prince of Peace. 
His dominion is vast 
and forever peaceful, 
from David’s throne, and over his kingdom, 
which he confirms and sustains 
by judgment and justice, 
both now and forever.

Reader: The Word of the Lord. 
R/. Thanks be to God. 

With hands joined, the leader says: 

Lord our God, 
we praise you for your Son, Jesus Christ: 
he is Emmanuel, the hope of the peoples, 
he is the wisdom that teaches and guides us, 
he is the Savior of every nation. 
Lord God, 
let your blessing come upon us 
as we light the candles of this wreath. 
May the wreath and its light 
be a sign of Christ’s promise to bring us salvation. 
May he come quickly and not delay. 
We ask this through Christ our Lord. 

R/. Amen. 

The blessing may conclude with a verse from 
“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”: 

O come, desire of nations, bind 
in one the hearts of humankind; 
bid ev’ry sad division cease 
and be thyself our Prince of peace. 
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel 
shall come to thee, O Israel.