This year, the first Sunday of Advent is Dec. 1, a little later than some years. All four Sundays of December are Sundays in Advent with the fourth Sunday Dec. 22.
So, it’s time to get out the advent wreath and grab the rose and purple color candles.
If you need a little refresher, here it is.
Candles
The sequence of the candles is to light the first purple candle the first weekend of Advent, move clockwise and light a second purple candle on the second week, and then the third week, Gaudete Sunday, the rose candle is lit. The last purple candle is lit on the fourth Sunday of Advent.
Prayers
On the first Sunday of Advent, or the evening before, gather family and friends and place the candles in the wreath. If you prefer prayers specific to each Sunday in Advent, Ignatius Press suggests:
First Week — Dec. 1
All-powerful God, increase our strength of will for doing good that Christ may find an eager welcome at his coming and call us to his side in the kingdom of heaven, where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Second Week — Dec. 8
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, God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Third Week — Dec. 15
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.
Fourth Week — Dec. 22
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.
