Why Is The Third Advent Candle A Different Color?
The Advent wreath is perhaps the most recognizable symbol of the liturgical season. Traditionally, an Advent wreath is composed of a wreath of greenery with 4 candles - 3 violet and one rose. But why is the 3rd candle different from the others? What is the significance of the rose (pink) candle?
The rose candle is traditionally lit on the Third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. The day takes its common name from the Latin word Gaudete ("Rejoice"), the first word of the introit of this day's Mass (Gaudete in Domino semper: iterum dico, gaudete). Gaudete Sunday, along with Laetare Sunday in Lent, is one of two days per year when the liturgical color is rose.
Using rose is a way to show that the penitential seasons of Advent and Lent are nearing a close and to symbolize the hope of the coming Feast day. Some say the use of rose as a color comes from a tradition where the Pope would give citizens of Rome roses on Gaudete and Laetare Sunday. Another explanation is that the Rose developed as a blend between the penitential color of violet with the white of the upcoming feast day, almost as a preview of the feast during the seasons of Lent and Advent. As you light the rose candle this weekend on your Advent Wreath, remember the joy that is intended for this day!
The Advent wreath is a beautiful tradition that can help you and your family focus on God’s plan for salvation amidst the hustle and bustle of the holidays. To help you further experience and meditate on the deeper meanings of Advent, we have prepared FREE prayer cards that you can use as you light each candle of the Advent wreath on Sundays throughout the season.
Additionally, we invite you to join us for daily Advent reflections from Catholic clergy, speakers, and notables that will help guide you to discovering the peace, hope, and joy that can be found during Advent.