As we begin the season of Advent and prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas, we open our hearts to the many ways God comes to us each day; in the smile of a colleague, the warm words of a friend, or even in the midst of struggle, God is with us, filling us with the hope and joy of Christ this Advent season.
Week 1: This week we light the candle that symbolizes hope. Purple is the primary color associated with Advent. Within the Catholic Church it symbolizes penance, preparation, and sacrifice. During the first week of Advent we remember the Old Testament prophets who foretold of Jesus’ coming with hope and anticipation.
Week 2: This week we light the candle that symbolizes peace. As we work to better ourselves each day with the help of God’s grace, we know that Jesus is the Prince of Peace, bringing the hope of peace into our world and into our lives.
Week 3: This week we light the candle that symbolizes joy. During the third week of Advent we are filled with joy for the near arrival of Jesus on Christmas day. This Sunday is often called "Gaudete Sunday" as we reflect on the joy the shepherd's felt at the birth of Jesus.
Week 4: This week we light the candle that symbolizes love. We rejoice in the endless love that God has for us, which is made apparent in the birth of his Son. We reflect on the good news of God's love brought to us from the angel Gabriel.