THE ADVENT WREATH
One of the best-known customs for the season is the Advent wreath. The wreath and winter candle-lighting amid growing darkness strengthen some of the Advent images found in the Bible. The unbroken circle of greens is clearly an image of ever- lasting life, a victory wreath, the crown of Christ, or the wheel of time itself. Christians use the wreath as a sign that Christ reaches into our time to lead us to the light of everlasting life. The four candles mark the progress of the four weeks of Advent and the growth of light. Sometimes the wreath is embellished with natural dried flowers or fruit. Its evergreen branches lead the household and the congregation to the evergreen Christmas tree. In many homes, the family gathers for prayers around the wreath.
​First Sunday of Advent
We praise you, O God, for this evergreen crown that marks our days of preparation for Christ's advent.
As we light the first candle on this wreath, rouse us from sleep, that we may be ready to greet our Lord when he comes with all the saints and angels.
Enlighten us with your grace, and prepare our hearts to welcome him with joy.
Grant this through Christ our Lord, whose coming is certain and whose day draws near.
Amen.
Light the first candle.
Second Sunday of Advent
We praise you, O God, for this circle of light that marks our days of preparation for Christ's advent.
As we light the candles on this wreath, kindle within us the fire of your Spirit, that we may be light shining in the darkness.
Enlighten us with your grace, that we may welcome others as you have welcomed us.
Grant this through Christ our Lord, whose coming is certain and whose day draws near.
Amen.
Light two candles.
Third Sunday of Advent
We praise you, O God, for this victory wreath that marks our days of preparation for Christ's advent.
As we light the candles on this wreath, strengthen our hearts as we await the Lord's coming in glory.
Enlighten us with your grace, that we may serve our neighbors in need.
Grant this through Christ our Lord, whose coming is certain and whose day draws near.
Amen.
Light three candles.
Fourth Sunday of Advent
We praise you, O God, for this wheel of time that marks our days of preparation for Christ's advent.
As we light the candles on this wreath, open our eyes to see your presence in the lowly ones of this earth.
Enlighten us with your grace, that we may sing of your advent among us in the Word made flesh.
Grant this through Christ our Lord, whose coming is certain and whose day draws near.
Amen.
Light all four candles.
Reprinted from Words for Worship, copyright 2024 Augsburg Fortress.
Used by permission of Augsburg Fortress.
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