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Lighting the Advent wreath

Two lit candles on an Advent wreath mark the second week of Advent. We are well on our way to the greatest celebration of our faith and the hope it brings with it. (CNS photo/Octavio Duran)

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The first purple candle was lit the first weekend of Advent. Now move clockwise and light a second purple candle on the second week, and then the third week, Gaudete Sunday, the pink candle is lit. The last purple candle is lit on the fourth Sunday of Advent.

On the second Sunday of Advent — Dec. 5 — gather family and friends to pray. Suggested prayers from Ignatius Press: God of power and mercy, open our hearts in welcome. Remove the things that hinder us from receiving Christ with joy so that we may share his wisdom and become one with him when he comes in glory, for he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

On the third Sunday of Advent — Dec. 12 — gather to pray: Lord God, may we, your people, who look forward to the birthday of Christ experience the joy of salvation and celebrate that feast with love and thanksgiving. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

On the fourth Sunday of Advent — Dec. 19 — gather to pray: Father, all-powerful God, your eternal Word took flesh on our earth when the Virgin Mary placed her life at the service of your plan. Lift our minds in watchful hope to hear the voice which announces his glory and open our minds to receive the Spirit who prepares us for his coming. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

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