In Advent we wait 3 coming :
1. We prepare for Christmas, the birth of Jesus.
2. We prepare for Jesus to be born in our hearts.
3. We prepare for Jesus to come again at the end of all time
4 Advent weeks preparing
First : Candle of HOPE
As we begin Advent, we light one candle to bring light to the darkness in our world. The light symbolizes our longing , our desire, our HOPE
Second : Candle of LOVE
Isaiah 11: 1-2 :
A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.
The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him - the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.
Third : Candle of JOY
Gaudete Sunday, Gaudet means "rejoice" in Latin. The spirit of JOY because Christmas in near. This is expressed on many Advent wreaths, with a rose colored candle. Priests also wear rose colored vestments at the Eucharist.
Fourth : Candle of PEACE
Isaiah cf 35: 4-6 :
Say ti those who are of a fearful heart, "Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God. ... He will come and save you." Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then the lams shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy. For waters shall break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert.