The Advent season is a time of anticipation, reflection, and preparation for Christians around the world. Traditionally observed in the weeks leading up to Christmas, Advent is marked by the lighting of candles in a wreath, each carrying its own unique significance. Among these candles, the pink candle stands out, often sparking curiosity and interest. What does the pink Advent candle mean, and why is it an integral part of the Advent tradition? This article delves into the history, symbolism, and theological meaning of the pink Advent candle, providing a comprehensive understanding of its role in Christian worship.
The Advent Wreath: A Brief Overview
Before exploring the pink candle specifically, it is essential to understand the broader context of the Advent wreath. The Advent wreath is a circular garland made of evergreen branches, symbolizing eternal life. It typically holds four candles, each representing a different aspect of the Advent season. Traditionally, three of these candles are purple, and one is pink. Some modern interpretations also include a fifth candle, usually white, which is lit on Christmas Day.
Each Sunday during Advent, one additional candle is lit, beginning with the first purple candle. The lighting of these candles serves as a countdown to Christmas, with each candle symbolizing a particular theme: hope, peace, joy, and love. The pink candle, which is usually the third candle to be lit, holds a special place in this sequence.
The Symbolism of the Pink Candle
The pink Advent candle is often referred to as the “Candle of Joy” or “Gaudete Candle.” The term “Gaudete” comes from the Latin word meaning “rejoice.” This theme of joy is the central focus of the third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. The color pink, or rose, is traditionally associated with joy and rejoicing in the liturgical calendar. It serves as a visual representation of the joy that comes with the nearing celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Gaudete Sunday: A Day of Joyful Anticipation
Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent, marks a shift from the more penitential and reflective tone of the earlier weeks of Advent to a more joyful anticipation of Christmas. The pink candle is lit on this day to symbolize the joy that the faithful feel as they draw closer to the celebration of Christ’s birth.
The joy represented by the pink candle is not just a fleeting happiness but a deep, spiritual joy that comes from the anticipation of the Messiah’s arrival. It is a reminder that, despite the challenges and hardships of life, there is reason to rejoice because of the hope and salvation offered through Jesus Christ.
The Theological Meaning of Joy in Advent
In the Christian faith, joy is more than just an emotion; it is a fruit of the Holy Spirit and a profound expression of trust in God’s promises. During Advent, joy is particularly significant because it reflects the joy of the Incarnation—the moment when God became flesh in the person of Jesus Christ.
The pink candle, therefore, serves as a symbol of this deep, abiding joy. It encourages believers to look beyond the struggles of the present and to find hope in the promise of God’s love and salvation. This joy is not based on external circumstances but is rooted in the assurance that God is with us, Emmanuel, and that He will fulfill His promises.
Scriptural Foundations of Joy in Advent
The theme of joy during Advent is deeply rooted in Scripture. For example, in the book of Isaiah, the prophet speaks of the joy that will come with the arrival of the Messiah: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil” (Isaiah 9:2-3).
This passage highlights the transformative power of the Messiah’s coming, bringing light and joy to those in darkness. Similarly, in the New Testament, the angel’s announcement to the shepherds in the Gospel of Luke is a proclamation of joy: “And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord'” (Luke 2:10-11).
These scriptural references underscore the significance of joy in the Advent season and the reason for lighting the pink candle on Gaudete Sunday.
The Pink Candle in the Context of the Entire Advent Wreath
To fully appreciate the meaning of the pink candle, it is important to consider it within the context of the entire Advent wreath. Each candle in the wreath has its own symbolism and contributes to the overall message of Advent.
The First Candle: The Candle of Hope (Prophecy Candle)
The first purple candle, known as the “Candle of Hope” or “Prophecy Candle,” is lit on the first Sunday of Advent. This candle represents the hope and expectation of the coming Messiah, as foretold by the prophets. It reminds Christians of the long-awaited arrival of Jesus and the fulfillment of God’s promises.
The Second Candle: The Candle of Peace (Bethlehem Candle)
The second purple candle, called the “Candle of Peace” or “Bethlehem Candle,” is lit on the second Sunday of Advent. This candle symbolizes the peace that Christ brings to the world, as well as the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. It is a reminder of the peace that Jesus offers to all who trust in Him.
The Third Candle: The Candle of Joy (Gaudete Candle)
The third candle, which is pink, is lit on Gaudete Sunday. As discussed earlier, this candle represents joy—joy that is grounded in the anticipation of Christ’s birth and the salvation He brings.
The Fourth Candle: The Candle of Love (Angel’s Candle)
The fourth purple candle, known as the “Candle of Love” or “Angel’s Candle,” is lit on the fourth Sunday of Advent. This candle represents the love of God, as demonstrated by the angel’s message of good news to the shepherds. It serves as a reminder of God’s love for humanity, expressed through the gift of His Son.
The Fifth Candle: The Christ Candle
Some Advent wreaths include a fifth candle, often white, which is placed in the center of the wreath and lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. This “Christ Candle” symbolizes the arrival of Christ, the Light of the World, and celebrates His birth.
Practical Applications: Incorporating the Pink Candle into Your Advent Observance
For Christians observing Advent, the pink candle offers an opportunity to reflect on the joy that comes with the anticipation of Christ’s birth. Here are a few practical ways to incorporate the significance of the pink candle into your Advent observance:
Meditate on Joy
Take time during the third week of Advent to meditate on the theme of joy. Reflect on the joy that the birth of Christ brings to the world and how that joy impacts your own life. Consider how you can cultivate a spirit of joy, even in the midst of challenges, by focusing on the promises of God.
Engage in Acts of Joyful Service
One way to embody the joy of the pink candle is to engage in acts of service that bring joy to others. This could include volunteering at a local charity, visiting someone who is lonely, or simply offering a kind word to those around you. By spreading joy, you participate in the spirit of Gaudete Sunday.
Family Devotions
If you are celebrating Advent with your family, use the pink candle as an opportunity for a special family devotion. Read passages of Scripture that focus on joy, such as the annunciation to the shepherds in Luke 2 or the prophecy of Isaiah 9. Discuss the meaning of joy in the Christian faith and how your family can experience and share that joy.
Joyful Worship
Attend a special Advent or Gaudete Sunday service, if possible, where the lighting of the pink candle is observed. Participate in worship with a heart full of joy, celebrating the nearness of Christmas and the coming of Christ.
see also: What Denominations Celebrate Advent?
Conclusion: The Pink Candle as a Beacon of Joy
The pink Advent candle is more than just a colorful addition to the wreath; it is a profound symbol of the joy that is central to the Advent season. As Christians light this candle on Gaudete Sunday, they are reminded of the joy that comes from the good news of Jesus Christ. This joy is not dependent on circumstances but is rooted in the unchanging promises of God.
By understanding the significance of the pink candle, Christians can deepen their appreciation of the Advent season and experience the true joy that comes from anticipating the birth of the Savior. Whether through meditation, acts of service, family devotions, or worship, the pink candle serves as a beacon of joy, guiding believers toward the celebration of Christmas with hearts full of rejoicing.