Advent is a season of anticipation. We reflect upon those that sat in anticipation of Christ’s birth and we look forward in anticipation of Christ’s return. As we embark on this beautiful season of anticipation, we invite you to join us for our first Annual Advent Wreath Making Workshop on Saturday, November 27, 2021, at 10 AM!
The cost is $25 per wreath, which will help with materials, snacks, and drinks. Please pay either by check or online at goodshepherdnashville.org/give (and select "Liturgical Supplies" under "Designate to").
NOTE: Just register for the number of wreaths you would like to make at the workshop.
If you cannot make the workshop feel free to place an order that you can pick up on Sunday, November 28, 2021. Please contact Caitlin Becton (caitlin@goodshepherdnashville.org) with any questions!
FAQs
What is an advent wreath? An advent wreath is a wreath with five candles. There are three purple candles, one pink candle, and one white candle in the center. While there is always a white candle some parts of the world may have red candles or even blue candles instead. The candles represent each week of Advent:
Week 1 is a purple candle often representing the Patriarchs or Hope
Week 2 is a purple candle often representing the Prophets or Love
Week 3 is the pink candle often representing John the Baptist or Joy
Week 4 is a purple candle representing the Virgin Mary or Peace
On Christmas, the white candle (affectionately known as the "Christ candle") is lit representing Christ
What’s the purpose of the advent wreath? It is a tool to help us contemplate the advent of Christ's coming. Each element of the wreath is symbolic. Each of the four Sundays then reminds us of those who prepared for the coming of Christ. ‘The Patriarchs’ can naturally focus on Abraham, our father in faith, and David, the ancestor in whose city Jesus was born. ‘The Prophets’ gives an opportunity to reflect on the way the birth of the Messiah was ‘foretold’. John, who proclaimed the Saviour, and Mary, who bore him in her womb, complete the picture.
What happens when you light each candle? Before you light the candle each week, consider reading a passage of scripture and offering a prayer of confession, then light the candle. After the candle is light join in a song like O Come, O Come Emmanual and conclude with a prayer.