Do you have an Advent wreath? Traditionally, the Advent wreath is a circle of evergreen branches, often decorated with berries and pinecones. Its shape symbolizes the complete and endless love that Jesus has for us. Each week we light one of four candles — three purple and one pink — that represent four attributes of the season: Hope, Peace, Joy (this is the pink one), and Love.

Catholics keep an Advent wreath in their home and light one new candle each week leading up to Christmas. The candles represent Jesus coming as the light in darkness. One candle is lit each Sunday until all four candles are lit. As Christmas draws nearer, each candle brings a little more light into the darkness.

You are invited to make a wreath here at St. Francis Xavier (in the Xavier Room) for your family. You will get one 12-inch faux pine wreath, four Root taper candles, and embellishments to decorate the wreath. Plus, we’ll have a cookie-decorating station and refreshments, music and even a roaring “fire” to add to the fun! Wreaths will be blessed at the end of the evening.