What are the origins of the Advent wreath? Why is it round with four candles?
The origins of the Advent wreath can be traced to 16th-century Germany; however, the custom did not become widespread in the U.S. until the 20th century. The custom originated in the home because of the use of candles to light a room, which became even more necessary during the shorter days of Advent. The round wreath is an appropriate symbol as it has no beginning and no end, reminding us of the eternity of God. The green of the wreath symbolizes life even in the midst of the season when most plants are dead. The four candles, of course, mark the four weeks of Advent. The candles may be all violet, all white, or three violet and one rose for the third week, Gaudete Sunday. The candles’ flame reminds us that Christ is the light of the world. The light from the wreath gets brighter with the lighting of each additional candle as we near Christmas.
