The Advent Wreath originated in Germany, and now has become a universal symbol which helps to tell the story of Christmas.
The green fir reminds us of the eternal hope we should have in God, a hope of renewal, always the possibility of a new beginning.
The candles are a reminder of the light of God coming into this world in the presence of the Child in the manger, God's only Son.
The four outer candles of the wreath represent the period of waiting during the four Sundays of Advent, which are a reminder of the four centuries from the prophet Malachai to the birth of Christ.
The colours of the candles have a particular meaning:
the three purple candles encourage us to make a serious effort during Advent to prepare our souls for the coming of Christ;
the pink candle is lit on the third Sunday of advent, which used to be called : Gaudete Sunday- Rejoicing Sunday. The Church wishes us to relax a little from our efforts of prayer and fasting;