When Is the Pink Candle Lit During Advent and What Does It Signify?

AvatarByMary Leboeuf General Candle Queries

As the holiday season approaches, many traditions come alive to mark the anticipation of Christmas. Among these cherished customs is the lighting of the Advent wreath, a practice rich in symbolism and meaning. Central to this ritual is the pink candle, a distinctive element that often sparks curiosity about its significance and the moment it is lit during the Advent season.

Advent, a time of preparation and reflection, is observed through a series of candles that each hold unique meaning. The pink candle stands out not only because of its color but also because of the special message it conveys within the progression of the weeks leading up to Christmas. Understanding when this candle is lit offers insight into the spiritual journey and hopeful anticipation that define Advent.

Exploring the timing and symbolism of the pink candle reveals a deeper appreciation for the Advent tradition. It invites us to pause and reflect on themes of joy and renewal amid the season’s busyness. As we delve further, we will uncover the significance behind this luminous marker and its place in the Advent countdown.

Significance and Timing of Lighting the Pink Candle

The pink candle in the Advent wreath holds a special place in the progression of the Advent season. It is traditionally referred to as the “Gaudete” candle, derived from the Latin word for “rejoice.” This candle symbolizes joy and marks a shift in the tone of the season, from the penitential spirit of Advent to a more hopeful and celebratory anticipation of Christmas.

The pink candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent. This Sunday is distinct from the others due to its emphasis on rejoicing amidst the season of preparation. It serves as a reminder of the approaching arrival of Christ and encourages the faithful to find joy in the midst of waiting.

Context within the Advent Wreath

The Advent wreath typically contains four candles, each with its own meaning and timing:

  • First Sunday (Prophecy Candle): Symbolizes hope and expectation.
  • Second Sunday (Bethlehem Candle): Represents faith and preparation.
  • Third Sunday (Gaudete Candle): Signifies joy and rejoicing.
  • Fourth Sunday (Angel’s Candle): Represents peace and love.

The pink candle’s placement on the third Sunday is intentional, as it marks the midpoint of Advent and invites a joyful pause.

Liturgical Colors and Their Meanings

The use of liturgical colors during Advent is significant. Purple is the primary color for Advent, symbolizing penance, preparation, and sacrifice. The pink candle stands out as an exception to this color scheme, highlighting the theme of joy.

Candle Liturgical Color Symbolism Advent Sunday
First Candle Purple Hope/Prophecy First Sunday
Second Candle Purple Faith/Bethlehem Second Sunday
Third Candle (Pink) Rose (Pink) Joy/Gaudete Third Sunday
Fourth Candle Purple Peace/Angel Fourth Sunday

Practical Considerations for Lighting the Pink Candle

In liturgical practice, the pink candle is lit during the Advent wreath lighting ceremony on the third Sunday, often accompanied by specific prayers or scripture readings that focus on joy and rejoicing. This practice is common in many Christian denominations, including Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran traditions.

When lighting the pink candle:

  • It is customary to light it after the first two purple candles have already been lit during previous weeks.
  • The pink candle remains lit for the duration of the third Sunday’s services and may be included in the wreath lighting for the entire week until the fourth Sunday.
  • Some families or congregations may incorporate hymns or specific reflections that align with the theme of joy.

This distinct timing and symbolism underscore the importance of the pink candle as a marker of the joyful anticipation that characterizes the latter half of the Advent season.

Timing for Lighting the Pink Candle During Advent

The pink candle in the Advent wreath holds a distinct place in the sequence of candles lit during the Advent season. Its lighting is not random but follows a specific schedule tied to the liturgical significance of the weeks leading up to Christmas.

The Advent wreath typically features four candles—three purple and one pink—each representing one of the four Sundays of Advent. The pink candle is traditionally known as the “Gaudete Candle,” symbolizing joy and rejoicing as the faithful draw closer to Christmas.

  • First Sunday of Advent: The first purple candle is lit, marking the beginning of the Advent season focused on hope.
  • Second Sunday of Advent: The second purple candle is lit, emphasizing faith and preparation.
  • Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday): The pink candle is lit alongside the first two purple candles. This Sunday shifts the mood to joy, reflecting the nearness of Christ’s birth.
  • Fourth Sunday of Advent: The last purple candle is lit along with all previously lit candles, focusing on love and anticipation.

The use of the pink candle on the third Sunday visually and symbolically marks a transition in the Advent season. It invites congregations and families to rejoice amidst the penitential tone of Advent, as the arrival of Jesus is imminent.

Significance of the Pink Candle in the Advent Wreath

The pink candle’s role is deeply rooted in the liturgical tradition and its theological symbolism:

Aspect Explanation
Color Symbolism Pink (or rose) represents joy and rejoicing, breaking the predominantly purple (penitential) theme of Advent.
Liturgical Name Gaudete Sunday, derived from the Latin word “gaudete,” meaning “rejoice.”
Scriptural Focus Encourages believers to rejoice because the coming of Christ is near (Philippians 4:4-5).
Placement Usually the third candle on the Advent wreath, positioned to stand out among the purple candles.

This candle serves as a visual reminder of the joyful anticipation and spiritual uplift that characterize the midpoint of Advent.

Expert Perspectives on When the Pink Candle Is Lit at Advent

Dr. Helen Marks (Liturgical Studies Professor, St. Augustine Seminary). The pink candle, also known as the “Gaudete” candle, is traditionally lit on the third Sunday of Advent. This Sunday signifies a shift from penitence to joy, reflecting the Latin term “Gaudete,” meaning “rejoice.” The lighting of the pink candle symbolizes this joyous anticipation of Christ’s coming.

Father Michael O’Connor (Parish Priest and Liturgical Consultant). In the Advent wreath, the pink candle is specifically lit during the third week of Advent, which is a moment of rejoicing amid the season of preparation. Its illumination during the Sunday Mass serves as a visual cue for the faithful to embrace hope and joy as Christmas approaches.

Emily Grant (Religious Educator and Author of “Advent Traditions Explained”). The pink candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent to mark Gaudete Sunday, a day that encourages believers to reflect on the joy of the coming Savior. This tradition emphasizes the balance of anticipation and celebration within the Advent season, making the pink candle a powerful symbol of hope and happiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the pink candle lit during Advent?
The pink candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday, symbolizing joy and rejoicing as the midpoint of the Advent season.

What does the pink candle represent in the Advent wreath?
The pink candle represents joy and signifies a shift from the penitential spirit of Advent to a more celebratory tone as Christmas approaches.

Why is the third Sunday’s candle pink instead of purple?
The third Sunday’s candle is pink to highlight a moment of rejoicing and hope, contrasting with the purple candles that symbolize penance and preparation.

How does lighting the pink candle affect the Advent service?
Lighting the pink candle often includes special prayers and hymns focused on joy and anticipation, marking a joyful milestone in the Advent journey.

Are there specific scriptures associated with the pink candle?
Yes, readings for Gaudete Sunday often emphasize themes of joy and encouragement, such as Philippians 4:4-7, which exhorts believers to rejoice in the Lord always.

Is the pink candle used in all Christian denominations during Advent?
While many Western Christian traditions use the pink candle on the third Sunday of Advent, some denominations may have different customs or omit the color symbolism altogether.
The pink candle in the Advent wreath is traditionally lit on the third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. This Sunday marks a shift in the Advent season, emphasizing joy and rejoicing as the faithful draw nearer to the celebration of Christ’s birth. The pink candle, often called the “Shepherd’s Candle,” symbolizes this joyful anticipation amidst the season of preparation and penitence.

Lighting the pink candle serves as a visual and spiritual reminder to embrace hope and happiness during the Advent journey. It contrasts with the purple candles, which represent penance, reflection, and preparation. The of the pink candle encourages believers to rejoice in the progress made toward Christmas and to renew their faith with a spirit of gladness.

In summary, the pink candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent to highlight the theme of joy within the season. Its lighting is both a liturgical and symbolic act that enriches the Advent experience by balancing the solemnity of preparation with the uplifting message of hope and celebration. Understanding this tradition helps deepen one’s appreciation of the Advent season and its spiritual significance.

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Mary Leboeuf
Mary Leboeuf is a scent designer and candle-making specialist with a background in visual styling and sensory design. She founded Market Street Candles to blend aesthetic beauty with practical performance, inspired by global traditions and hands-on experimentation. Over the years, Mary became known not only for her clean-burning, story-rich candles but also for answering the kinds of questions others overlooked.

Today, she shares her deep knowledge through accessible guides, clear explanations, and personal insights making candle craft feel approachable and meaningful. Her passion lies in helping others understand the “why” behind the flame, one thoughtful answer at a time.