Lord Jesus,

Master of both the light and the darkness
send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas.

We who have so much to do
seek quiet places to hear you voice each day.

We who are anxious over so many things
look forward to your coming among us.

We who are blessed in so many ways
long for complete joy in your kingdom.

We whose hearts are heavy
seek the joy of your presence.

We are your people walking in darkness yet seeking the light.

To you we say “Come Lord Jesus”

Amen                                         Henri Nouwen

Advent is the period of time before Christmas during which Christians wait for the birth of Jesus. The word “advent” comes from a Latin word which means “coming” or “come into,” as Jesus came into the world for us.

The circle of the Advent Wreath, which has no beginning or end, symbolises the eternity of God, the immortality of the soul, and the everlasting life we find in Jesus Christ. The four candles represent the four weeks of Advent, and one candle is lit each Sunday.

The First candle represents HOPE—because the prophets foretold the birth of Jesus and the people wait in anticipation of the coming Messiah.

The Second candle represents PEACE—Jesus’s coming brings an end to all division and destruction, bringing peace on earth.

The Third candle (pink) represents JOY—as we get closer to the birth of Jesus, our joyful anticipation increases.

The Fourth candle represents LOVE—the love of God for us that he would send His only Son into the world.