How To Make an Advent Wreath

Evenly space four candles—three purple and one rose—on the wreath. Tapered candles are more traditional, but pillar candles are fine, too.

Attach the candles with floral candle holders, available at craft stores.

Place a white pillar candle—preferably one that is higher than the other candles—into a candle holder, and set it in the center of the wreath.

Decorate the wreath with anything you like. Use wire or floral sticks to attach pinecones (plain or spray-painted gold), holly berries, small fruit, and so on.

Light one of the purple candles on the first day of Advent, which is the fourth Sunday before Christmas. This candle symbolizes the hope that the coming of Christ brings to the world.

The next Sunday, light two candles—first, the candle from the previous week, then another purple candle. This second candle symbolizes the love God demonstrated when he sent his son to the world on Christmas Day.

On the third Sunday, light the previous two candles in the order they were originally lit plus the rose-colored candle, which symbolizes the joy of anticipating the coming of the Savior.

On the final Sunday of Advent, the previous three candles are lit in order plus the final purple candle, which represents the peace Christ brings to the world.