Advent is a four-week period of time dedicated to reflective preparation for the arrival ‘advent‘ of Jesus Christ’s Nativity at Christmas as well as Christ’s expected return in the Second Coming. During this important event on the church calendar, each week of Advent focuses on a different theme – hope, peace, joy and love. Believers from all denominations and backgrounds celebrate Advent in different ways but all focus on the anticipation of waiting for the arrival of Jesus.
The most common Advent candle tradition, however, involves four candles. A new candle is lit on each of the four Sundays before Christmas. The four candles traditionally represent hope, peace, joy and love. Often the first, second and fourth candles are purple; the third is rose-colored. There is a fifth candle in the center of the wreath. This candle is white and is lit on Christmas representing the birth of Jesus who brings light into the world.
Here at Central Congregational Church on Christmas Eve at 5pm we celebrate the birth of Jesus for the whole family. We sing many of the Christmas Carols, have a special message just for the children, a short devotion and conclude by singing Joy to the World by candlelight.
All are welcome to come and celebrate our Savior’s birth!
