Liturgically Speaking: Advent & The Advent Wreath

Advent, derived from the Latin word "adventus," meaning "coming" or "arrival," is a significant season observed in the Christian liturgical calendar. It typically begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, marking the start of the church year and the period of anticipation leading up to the celebration of the birth of Jesus on December 25th. Advent is a time of reflection, penance, and preparation, during which believers light candles on an Advent wreath.  It is a season of spiritual renewal and a reminder of the promise of the Messiah's coming, encouraging Christians to embrace the virtues of faith, patience, and goodwill while awaiting the arrival of the Savior. Beyond its religious significance, Advent has also become a cultural and secular observance, characterized by the excitement and anticipation of the holiday season, as people prepare for Christmas with acts of kindness, charity, and festive traditions.

The history of the Advent wreath can be traced back to 19th-century Germany, where it emerged as a Christian tradition symbolizing the anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ. The wreath typically consists of a circular evergreen garland with four candles, one for each of the four Sundays leading up to Christmas. The concept of the Advent wreath eventually made its way to the United States through German immigrants, who brought with them their cherished Christmas customs, including this symbolic wreath. Over time, the use of the Advent wreath in American Christian households and churches gained popularity, evolving into a cherished tradition. Today, the Advent wreath plays a significant role in the American Christian celebration of the Advent season, serving as a visible and meaningful reminder of the spiritual themes in some denominations of hope, peace, joy, and love during the weeks leading up to Christmas. It has become an integral part of many American Christmas traditions, encouraging reflection, prayer, and joyful anticipation of the birth of Jesus. 

The use of the Advent wreath in the Episcopal Church helps congregants focus on the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love, which are central to the Advent season. It serves as a visual and symbolic reminder of the spiritual preparation and anticipation leading up to the celebration of the birth of Jesus. The exact customs and liturgical practices related to the Advent wreath vary from one Episcopal parish to another, but the overarching purpose remains the same: to engage the community in a season of reflection, prayer, and joyful expectation.

Pax,
Dr. Jason