In the traditional celebration, there are four advent candles placed within an advent wreath, which is one of the most popular symbols used by Christians during the Advent season.  The wreath is circular shaped and made of evergreen and is used both by churches for their religious services as well as by individuals in their homes.

More modern traditions involve the use of an additional, fifth candle that is placed in the center of the wreath.  Typically you will see the use of four candles in the Catholic faith, while Protestant religions tend to use five candles.

Colors of advent candles can vary.  The traditional choice is three purple candles and one pink/rose candle, though many churches will use blue candles in place of the purple.

The colors and lighting order of the candles are detailed below.  It is customary to read a few verses of scripture that relate to the candle’s meaning and/or recite a short statement of belief/faith as the candle is lit.

The first candle – the Prophecy Candle or Candle of Hope – is purple and is lit on the first Sunday of Advent.  Its name signifies the fact that Jesus’s coming was prophesied hundreds of years before he was born.

The second candle – the Bethlehem Candle or Candle of Peace – is purple and is lit along with the first candle on the second Sunday of Advent.  It signifies that Jesus was born in Bethlehem.

The third candle – the Shepherd’s Candle or Candle of Love – is pink or rose and is lit along with the first and second candles on the third Sunday of Advent.  The more joyful pink color represents the rejoicing of the shepherds after having received the sign and seeing the Christ child.

The fourth candle – Angel Candle or Candle of Joy – is purple and is lit with the other three candles on the fourth Sunday of Advent.  It is a reminder of the announcement of Christ’s birth by the host of angels.

If a fifth candle – the Christ Candle – is used, it is a white candle (usually a pillar) placed in the center of the advent wreath.  The white candle represents the birth of Christ and a celebration of fulfillment of prophecy and is lit along with all of the other candles on Christmas Day (or Christmas Eve in some churches).

The information above (excluding the fifth, white candle) is traditional to the Catholic church.  Protestant churches more commonly use red candles, though blue is found in most Lutheran or Anglican churches.

Whichever colors you choose for your advent candles, the meaning and symbolism remains and can be a wonderful tradition in remembrance and celebration of the Advent season.