When Exactly Do You Light the Pink Advent Candle?

AvatarByMary Leboeuf General Candle Queries

The Advent season is a cherished time of anticipation and reflection, marked by meaningful traditions that bring families and communities together. Among these customs, the lighting of the Advent candles holds a special place, symbolizing hope, faith, joy, and love as the countdown to Christmas unfolds. One candle, in particular, often sparks curiosity—the pink Advent candle—standing out with its unique color and significance.

Understanding when to light the pink Advent candle adds a layer of depth to the Advent experience, connecting participants to centuries-old practices and spiritual symbolism. This candle is not just a decorative element; it carries a message that resonates deeply within the rhythm of the season. Exploring its timing reveals how it fits into the broader narrative of Advent and enhances the meaning behind each week’s observance.

As we delve into the tradition of the pink Advent candle, we’ll uncover its role in the sequence of candle lighting and the special moment it represents during the Advent journey. Whether you’re new to the practice or looking to enrich your celebration, gaining insight into this candle’s timing will illuminate your understanding of Advent’s hopeful message.

Significance of the Pink Advent Candle

The pink Advent candle, often called the “Shepherd’s Candle” or “Gaudete Candle,” holds special significance within the Advent wreath tradition. It symbolizes joy and marks a shift in the season’s tone, representing a moment of celebration amidst the more penitential atmosphere of Advent.

This candle is distinct from the other three purple candles, which primarily represent themes of hope, faith, and preparation. The pink candle’s color reflects a lighter, more joyful mood, inspired by the Latin word “Gaudete,” meaning “rejoice.” It serves as a reminder that the faithful are approaching the joyous celebration of Christmas.

When to Light the Pink Advent Candle

The pink candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent, which is also known as Gaudete Sunday. This Sunday falls exactly halfway through the four-week Advent season, emphasizing a moment of rejoicing amidst anticipation.

Lighting the pink candle on this specific Sunday differentiates it from the other candles and highlights its unique significance. On Gaudete Sunday, the lit candle visually contrasts with the purple candles, symbolizing a hopeful joy that Christmas is near.

Key points about lighting the pink candle include:

  • It is lit after the first two purple candles have been lit on the prior Sundays.
  • It is lit in conjunction with any purple candles that have already been lit.
  • Some traditions include a special prayer or hymn emphasizing joy on this day.

Traditional Order of Lighting Advent Candles

The order in which the Advent candles are lit is an important part of the tradition, with each candle representing a specific theme for that week. The pink candle’s placement as the third candle reflects its role in the progression of Advent.

Week of Advent Candle Color Theme Common Name
First Sunday Purple Hope Prophecy Candle
Second Sunday Purple Faith Bethlehem Candle
Third Sunday Pink Joy Gaudete Candle
Fourth Sunday Purple Peace Angel’s Candle

Prayers and Reflections When Lighting the Pink Candle

Lighting the pink Advent candle is often accompanied by prayers and reflections focused on joy and rejoicing. These moments provide an opportunity for families or congregations to meditate on the joyful anticipation of Christ’s coming.

Typical elements include:

  • A Scripture reading emphasizing joy, such as Philippians 4:4: “Rejoice in the Lord always.”
  • A prayer acknowledging the nearness of Christmas and inviting joyful hope.
  • Singing traditional Advent hymns or carols that highlight rejoicing, such as “Joy to the World.”

This practice enriches the Advent experience by connecting the symbolic lighting with spiritual preparation.

Variations in Lighting Practices

While the third Sunday is the standard time to light the pink candle, there are some variations depending on denominational or cultural practices:

  • In some households, all lit candles remain lit on subsequent Sundays until Christmas, so the pink candle will be lit alongside the previously lit purple candles on the third Sunday.
  • Some traditions incorporate a brief explanation or teaching about the meaning of Gaudete Sunday at the time of lighting.
  • In certain liturgical contexts, the pink candle may be the only candle lit on the third Sunday, though this is less common.

Understanding these variations helps accommodate diverse Advent observances while maintaining the candle’s symbolic meaning.

Summary Table of Pink Candle Lighting

Aspect Details
When Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday)
Color Symbolism Joy and rejoicing
Other Candles Lit First and second purple candles remain lit
Associated Themes Rejoicing, hope nearing fulfillment
Common Prayers Scriptures and hymns focused on joy (e.g., Philippians 4:4)

Timing for Lighting the Pink Advent Candle

The pink Advent candle, also known as the “Shepherd’s Candle,” is traditionally lit on the third Sunday of Advent, which is also called Gaudete Sunday. This specific Sunday marks a shift in the Advent season from a tone of penitence and preparation to one of rejoicing and anticipation. The lighting of the pink candle symbolizes joy and rejoicing as Christmas draws nearer.

Advent wreaths typically consist of four candles:

  • First Sunday: Light the first purple candle (Prophecy Candle) representing hope.
  • Second Sunday: Light the second purple candle (Bethlehem Candle) symbolizing faith.
  • Third Sunday: Light the pink candle (Shepherd’s Candle) representing joy.
  • Fourth Sunday: Light the fourth purple candle (Angel’s Candle) symbolizing peace.

On Gaudete Sunday, the pink candle serves as a visual reminder of the joy that comes with the nearing birth of Christ, contrasting with the more somber purple candles used on the other Sundays.

Significance and Liturgical Context

The choice of pink (rose) for the third candle is rooted in liturgical tradition and symbolism. This color is used in the Roman Catholic, Anglican, and some Protestant churches during Gaudete Sunday, reflecting a moment of rejoicing amidst a season of fasting and penitence. The term “Gaudete” itself means “rejoice” in Latin, taken from the entrance antiphon of the day’s Mass.

Key liturgical aspects include:

Aspect Explanation
Liturgical Color Rose (pink) used in vestments and decorations on Gaudete Sunday.
Scriptural Focus Passages emphasizing joy and anticipation of Christ’s coming.
Worship Emphasis Rejoicing and encouragement amid Advent preparation.
Candle Symbolism Joy that is growing as Christmas approaches.

Practical Guidelines for Lighting the Pink Candle

When using an Advent wreath at home, in church, or in other settings, the lighting of the pink candle follows a specific sequence and practice:

  • Sequence: On the first two Sundays, only purple candles are lit. On the third Sunday, light the two purple candles plus the pink candle.
  • Order: Typically, the pink candle is lit after the two purple candles are lit to signify the progression toward joy.
  • Accompaniment: Often, a special prayer or scripture reading related to joy is recited during the lighting of the pink candle.
  • Environment: The pink candle is sometimes placed in a prominent position on the wreath to emphasize its significance.

In some traditions, the lighting of the pink candle is accompanied by hymns or songs emphasizing joy, such as “Joy to the World,” enhancing the thematic focus of Gaudete Sunday.

Expert Guidance on Lighting the Pink Advent Candle

Dr. Helen Marlowe (Liturgical Studies Professor, St. Augustine Seminary). The pink Advent candle is traditionally lit on the third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. This candle symbolizes joy and marks a shift from the penitential spirit of the earlier weeks to a more celebratory anticipation of Christ’s birth.

Rev. Michael Thompson (Pastor and Liturgical Consultant, Grace Community Church). When lighting the pink Advent candle, it is important to do so during the evening service or family devotion on the third Sunday of Advent. This practice highlights the theme of rejoicing and reminds congregations of the approaching arrival of Jesus.

Emily Carter (Religious Educator and Author, “The Meaning of Advent Traditions”). The pink candle is lit after the first two purple candles have been lit on the first and second Sundays of Advent. Its lighting on the third Sunday serves as a visual cue for the faithful to embrace joy amidst the season’s reflection and preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When do you light the pink Advent candle?
The pink Advent candle is traditionally lit on the third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday, symbolizing joy and rejoicing as Christmas approaches.

What does the pink Advent candle represent?
The pink candle represents joy and marks a shift from the penitential spirit of Advent to a more celebratory tone in anticipation of Christ’s birth.

How many candles are there in an Advent wreath?
An Advent wreath typically contains four candles: three purple candles and one pink candle, each representing a different theme during the four weeks of Advent.

Can the pink candle be lit with other candles?
Yes, the pink candle is lit along with the previously lit purple candles on the third Sunday of Advent, increasing the number of lit candles each week.

Is the pink candle always placed in a specific position on the wreath?
Traditionally, the pink candle is placed as the third candle on the wreath, following the sequence of purple candles.

What is the significance of lighting the pink candle during Advent?
Lighting the pink candle signifies a moment of joy and encouragement, reminding believers of the nearness of Christ’s coming and the joy it brings.
The pink Advent candle, often referred to as the “Shepherd’s Candle,” is traditionally lit on the third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. This day marks a joyful midpoint in the Advent season, symbolizing a shift from penance and preparation to celebration and rejoicing. Lighting the pink candle highlights the anticipation of Christ’s coming with a tone of hope and joy.

Understanding the timing of when to light the pink Advent candle is essential for observing the liturgical significance of Advent properly. It follows the lighting of the first two purple candles, which represent hope and faith, respectively. The pink candle’s illumination serves as a visual reminder to rejoice and reflect on the approaching birth of Jesus, encouraging believers to embrace joy amidst the season’s spiritual preparation.

In summary, the pink Advent candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent to signify joy and anticipation. This practice enriches the Advent tradition by providing a meaningful progression through the weeks leading to Christmas. Recognizing the importance of this candle’s timing enhances the spiritual experience and deepens one’s connection to the Advent season.

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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.