Among the beautiful and rich traditions of the Christian faith, the lighting of the Advent candles remains a powerful symbol of anticipation, hope, and the coming of Jesus Christ. During the four weeks of Advent, each Sunday marks a spiritual milestone symbolized by the lighting of a colored candle—typically three purple and one pink. However, at the heart of the Advent wreath lies a fifth candle, often white, known as the Christ Candle. The white candle holds profound meaning and serves as the culmination of the Advent journey.
Advent is a sacred season marked by expectant waiting, prayerful preparation, and spiritual renewal. It begins four Sundays before Christmas and leads the faithful through a series of themes represented by each candle: hope, peace, joy, and love. These themes help believers align their hearts with the profound mystery of the Incarnation. As the final week gives way to Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, the white candle is lit, symbolizing the birth of Christ—the light of the world.
The color white itself bears deep biblical significance. It represents purity, holiness, and the divine nature of Jesus. Unlike the other candles, which are lit progressively each week, the white candle stands at the center and is reserved for the most joyous moment: the arrival of Emmanuel. It invites worshippers to not only remember the birth of Christ in Bethlehem but to also embrace His continual presence in the world and in our lives. In this article, we will explore the rich history, symbolism, and devotional value of the white candle of Advent.
Understanding the Advent Wreath
To fully appreciate the significance of the white candle, it is essential to understand the context in which it is placed—the Advent wreath. Originating in 16th-century Germany and becoming more widespread by the 19th century, the Advent wreath is typically made of evergreen branches formed into a circle, symbolizing eternal life. The four outer candles represent the four Sundays of Advent, each standing for a different aspect of spiritual preparation.
The purple candles symbolize penance, fasting, and prayer, while the pink candle, lit on the third Sunday (Gaudete Sunday), symbolizes rejoicing. At the center of this wreath, the white candle is placed to be lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. It represents the light that has come into the world through the birth of Jesus Christ. This practice is observed in churches and homes alike and continues to draw hearts closer to the spiritual rhythm of the season.
The Symbolism of the Color White in Scripture
In the Bible, the color white is associated with purity, righteousness, holiness, and victory. Revelation 7:9 describes a great multitude standing before the Lamb, “clothed in white robes,” symbolizing their salvation. White garments are also seen in Revelation 3:5 and Isaiah 1:18, where God proclaims that though our sins are like scarlet, “they shall be as white as snow.” These scriptural images point to transformation, redemption, and divine perfection.
When applied to the Advent context, the white candle reflects the very nature of Jesus Christ. He is pure, sinless, and holy. His birth marks the moment when divine light pierced the darkness of the world. The white candle thus stands as a beacon of hope and fulfillment, not just pointing to an event in history, but to a living Savior who offers eternal life. It encourages worshippers to recognize the holiness of Christ and the gift of grace given through His incarnation.
Lighting the White Candle: A Christmas Celebration
The white candle is usually lit during the Christmas Eve or Christmas Day service. Some families choose to light it after the sun sets on December 24, welcoming Christmas morning with joy and reverence. Churches often incorporate the lighting of the white candle into Nativity services, accompanied by readings from Luke 2:1–20 or John 1:1–14.
This candle is often referred to as the Christ Candle. It serves as a visual and spiritual representation that Jesus has arrived, fulfilling the promise foretold by prophets and anticipated during the four weeks of Advent. In its flame, Christians see the light that “shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). The Christ Candle is the culmination of Advent devotion and the beginning of the Christmas celebration.
Christ as the Center of the Advent Wreath
Placing the white candle in the center of the Advent wreath is not accidental. It reflects a profound truth: Christ is the center of our faith, the center of history, and the center of Christmas. The four outer candles prepare the heart for what is to come, and when the white candle is finally lit, it completes the wreath. This reminds us that our spiritual journey is fulfilled not in our efforts, but in the person of Jesus Christ.
Many families use this moment to read from scripture, sing carols, and reflect on the deeper meaning of the season. It also serves as a time to share the joy of Christ’s birth with others—through service, generosity, and acts of kindness. In a world often clouded by distractions, the white candle re-centers our focus on what truly matters: the coming of the Savior.
Incorporating the White Candle into Family Devotions
Advent devotionals offer a structured and inspiring way to prepare for Christmas. Resources such as Advent Devotionals provide daily scripture readings, reflections, and prayers that align with each week’s theme. On Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, the devotional may center around the themes of fulfillment, joy, and light as the white candle is lit.
This moment can be profoundly meaningful for children and adults alike. Reading the Christmas story, offering a prayer of thanksgiving, or singing “Silent Night” while lighting the white candle creates a sacred atmosphere that honors the true reason for the season. Families are encouraged to pause, reflect, and recommit their hearts to Christ during this final lighting.
White Candle and the Second Coming
While the white candle commemorates Christ’s first coming, it also foreshadows His promised return. The Advent season is not just about remembering what happened in Bethlehem, but about looking forward to the day when Christ will return in glory. The white candle symbolizes this dual reality—the already and the not yet.
This theological depth adds richness to the celebration. Lighting the Christ Candle is a reminder that the story of redemption is ongoing. Jesus came, is present with us, and will come again. As such, the white candle not only celebrates the birth of Christ but also kindles hope for His return.
Conclusion
The white candle of Advent is more than a decorative tradition—it is a powerful proclamation of truth. It celebrates the purity, divinity, and light of Jesus Christ. It marks the fulfillment of ancient promises and the beginning of a new covenant. And as it stands at the center of the Advent wreath, it calls believers to center their lives around the Savior.
Whether you light this candle in a church sanctuary filled with song or in a quiet living room surrounded by family, the flame speaks the same message: “Unto us a child is born.” May this Advent season draw you closer to the heart of Christ and fill you with joy, peace, and everlasting light.
Related topics: