The tradition of an Advent wreath was started in the late 1500s by German Lutherans. The wreath is made of various evergreens, signifying continuous life. The laurel signifies victory over persecution and suffering; pine, holly, and yew signify immortality; and cedar signifies strength and healing.
The prickly holly leaves remind us of Jesus’ Crown of Thorns. The circular shape of the wreath, which has no beginning or end, symbolizes the eternity of God and life after death.
The prickly holly leaves remind us of Jesus’ Crown of Thorns. The circular shape of the wreath, which has no beginning or end, symbolizes the eternity of God and life after death.
Today: Pause when lighting your Advent wreath this evening and contemplate the symbolism it represents.