The Christian tradition of Advent is a profound period of reflection, anticipation, and spiritual preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. This sacred season, typically observed over the four Sundays leading up to Christmas, is rich with symbolism, liturgical colors, and devout practices. One of the most recognizable and cherished traditions during Advent is the lighting of the Advent wreath, a symbolic circle of evergreen branches holding four candles—three purple and one pink. Among these candles, the third—often referred to as the “Shepherd’s Candle” or “Gaudete Candle”—stands out for its distinct rose or pink hue. But why is the 3rd Advent candle pink?
This article will explore the biblical, historical, and theological roots of this unique tradition, shedding light on how the pink candle encapsulates a deeper message of joy and spiritual awakening. While the purple candles are associated with penance, preparation, and repentance, the pink candle is a radiant symbol of rejoicing, a turning point in the Advent journey that signals the coming of the Light into the world.
In this comprehensive guide, we will uncover the reasons behind the pink candle’s inclusion in the Advent wreath, its significance within liturgical worship, its connection to the broader themes of Advent, and its invitation to embrace hope and joy amid waiting. Whether you’re new to observing Advent or have participated in the tradition for years, understanding the symbolism of the pink candle can deepen your spiritual experience and enhance your appreciation for this sacred season.
As we delve into this topic, we will also explore the role of joy in the Christian faith, how this candle ties into scriptural themes, and how you can incorporate this tradition into your devotional life. If you’re following Advent Devotionals, understanding the meaning behind each candle brings greater depth and intentionality to your reflection.
What Is the Advent Season?
Advent, derived from the Latin word “adventus” meaning “coming” or “arrival,” is a sacred time for Christians around the world. It serves as a season of anticipation for the coming of Christ—not only celebrating His birth in Bethlehem but also looking ahead to His promised return. Spanning four weeks, Advent begins on the Sunday nearest to November 30, the feast of St. Andrew the Apostle.
The primary themes of Advent include hope, peace, joy, and love. These are represented by the four candles of the Advent wreath, each lit on successive Sundays. The season blends solemn preparation with the promise of spiritual renewal and celebration. Churches and families alike observe Advent through scripture readings, hymns, prayers, and devotionals that guide believers toward a deeper understanding of Christ’s coming.
Each week has a unique focus, often accompanied by corresponding readings from the Bible that highlight different aspects of the Incarnation and the coming kingdom of God. Advent is both a penitential and celebratory time—a balance between somber reflection and hopeful expectation.
The Structure of the Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath is more than decorative; it’s a symbolic representation of the passage of time and the light of Christ breaking through the darkness. Traditionally made of evergreen branches formed into a circle, the wreath represents eternal life and God’s unending love.
The four candles—three purple and one pink—are placed equidistantly around the wreath. In some variations, a white candle is placed at the center and lit on Christmas Day to represent Christ. Each week, one additional candle is lit, culminating in the full illumination of the wreath by the fourth week. The progressive lighting serves as a metaphor for the increasing brightness of Christ’s light as His birth draws nearer.
The candles are usually designated as follows:
First Sunday: Purple Candle – Hope (Prophet’s Candle)
Second Sunday: Purple Candle – Peace (Bethlehem Candle)
Third Sunday: Pink Candle – Joy (Shepherd’s Candle)
Fourth Sunday: Purple Candle – Love (Angel’s Candle)
Why Is the Third Candle Pink?
The pink or rose-colored candle, lit on the third Sunday of Advent, is a symbol of joy. This particular Sunday is known as “Gaudete Sunday,” from the Latin word “Gaudete,” which means “rejoice.” This day marks a liturgical shift in the season of Advent from repentance and waiting to joy and anticipation.
Gaudete Sunday is rooted in the ancient traditions of the Catholic Church and is still widely observed by various Christian denominations. It gets its name from the entrance antiphon for the day’s Mass: “Gaudete in Domino semper: iterum dico, gaudete.” This translates to “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice” (Philippians 4:4).
During early Christian times, Advent was a more penitential season, much like Lent. The color purple was used to signify penance, prayer, and preparation. Gaudete Sunday was introduced as a moment of respite, a “break” from the austerity of the season, allowing the faithful to rejoice as the celebration of Christ’s birth approached. The pink candle embodies this joyful reprieve and visually signals a shift in mood.
The Scriptural Foundation of the Pink Candle
The joy associated with the third week of Advent is rooted in Scripture. The readings for Gaudete Sunday often include passages such as:
Isaiah 61:1-2, 10-11: “I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall exult in my God.”
Luke 1:46-50: The Magnificat, Mary’s song of joy and praise.
Philippians 4:4-7: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
These passages highlight a theme of inner joy born from trust in God’s promises. The pink candle becomes not just a visual cue, but a theological one—a reminder that, even in a season marked by repentance, the Christian life is ultimately rooted in joy.
Liturgical Symbolism of Rose Color
The rose or pink color used in the third candle is unique and reserved for specific moments in the liturgical calendar. It symbolizes a pause in the penitential tone of Advent. The only other time rose is used liturgically is on Laetare Sunday, the fourth Sunday of Lent. Both days serve a similar purpose—to inject a sense of joy in seasons otherwise marked by somber preparation.
The use of pink in vestments, altar cloths, and candles invites worshippers to reflect not only on Christ’s first coming in Bethlehem but also on the joy of His second coming. The color signifies that the light is growing, the wait is almost over, and the fulfillment of God’s promise is near.
Theological Importance of Joy in Advent
Joy is not a superficial emotion, but a profound spiritual truth. In the Christian context, joy is not dependent on circumstances but is rooted in the presence and promises of God. The third week of Advent reminds believers that joy is part of the waiting process—that rejoicing can coexist with longing.
The pink candle stands as an emblem of that paradox. As believers reflect on the brokenness of the world and their own need for a Savior, they are simultaneously invited to rejoice because the Savior is near. This joy is reflective, anticipatory, and spiritually energizing.
How to Incorporate the Pink Candle in Personal Devotion
For families and individuals observing Advent at home, the pink candle offers a powerful opportunity to pause and reflect on joy. Some ways to incorporate it into your devotional life include:
Reading the Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) and reflecting on Mary’s joy in God.
Praying a litany of gratitude and rejoicing with each member of the family.
Engaging in acts of kindness that bring joy to others during the Advent season.
Pink Candle and Modern Christian Reflection
In today’s world, where anxiety, stress, and hopelessness often dominate, the pink candle becomes even more significant. It is a visual and spiritual nudge to remember that joy is not canceled by difficult times. Joy is a divine gift, one that emerges from faith, trust, and anticipation of the coming Savior.
Churches today often use Gaudete Sunday as a time to emphasize outreach, celebration, and community joy. Some may hold special services, music events, or children’s programs to highlight the joyful character of the day. It’s a time for the church to be visibly and vocally joyful.
Conclusion
The pink candle in the Advent wreath is not an arbitrary design choice. It’s a profound declaration of Christian joy breaking through a season of waiting. As we light the pink candle, we affirm that even in our penitence, we are people of joy. We recognize that God’s promises are not far off. We rejoice because we know how the story ends—with the coming of the Messiah and the dawn of salvation.
As you move through your Advent journey, may the pink candle serve as a luminous reminder that joy is both a destination and a companion in your walk with Christ. Whether through prayer, scripture, or Advent Devotionals, may your heart be filled with the light of rejoicing as you prepare for the coming King.
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