Candles in the Advent Wreath

As was noted on the post for November 11, there is a variety of devotional material that the church (and households) use in centering its devotional thoughts around the Advent wreath.  But there is no historical uniformity or “proper” designation for the candles.  Individual authors of seasonal devotional material frequently give their own names to the various candles.  Schemes include One United Methodist resource that name the candles Hope, Joy, Love and Peace.  There are designations that attach titles to the Shepherds’ Candle, the Angels’ Candle¸ the Prophets’ Candle and the Candle of the Star.  Faith, Hope, Love and Peace or The Prophets' Candle, the Bethlehem Candle, the Shepherds' Candle, and the Angel's Candle.  Still other schemes include:

Hope–Peace–Joy–Love.

Faithfulness–Hope–Joy–Love.

Prophets–Angels–Shepherds–Magi.

And, as I say, there is no one “truly traditional” or “historically prevailing” position.  Indeed, the room for variation provides the church with room for flexibility and creativity (within reason) with the use of the wreath.

Now, as we move away from four candles and toward seven¸ re-interpretation becomes necessary. 

This past Sunday, this was the reading for the Lighting of the Advent Wreath. 

Advent 1 – Wisdom

Leader: As our nights grow longer and our days grow short,

we look on these earthly signs--light and green branches--

and remember God's promise to our world:

Christ, our Light and our Hope, will come.

Listen to the words of Solomon:

“O God of my ancestors and Lord of mercy,

who have made all things by your word,

and by your wisdom have formed humankind to have dominion

over the creatures you have made,

and rule the world in holiness and righteousness,

and pronounce judgment in uprightness of soul,

give me the wisdom that sits by your throne,

and do not reject me from among your servants….

With you is wisdom, she who knows your works

and was present when you made the world;

she understands what is pleasing in your sight

and what is right according to your commandments.

Send her forth from the holy heavens,

and from the throne of your glory send her,

that she may labor at my side,

and that I may learn what is pleasing to you.”

(Wisdom of Solomon 9:1-4, 9-10)