PRAYERS AND READINGS FOR LIGHTING THE ADVENT WREATH CANDLES
The Third Sunday of Advent
The
third Advent candle is pink and represents joy. This candle is pink because the
rose colour represents joy, also known as the “Shepherd’s Candle.” The third
Sunday of Advent is meant to remind us of the world's joy at the birth of Jesus
and that the faithful have arrived at the midpoint of Advent. The third week of
Advent is often known as "Gaudete Sunday," derived from the Latin
word "gaudete," which means "rejoice." It is a time
of rejoicing and heightened anticipation as Christmas draws nearer.
The
Joy Candle represents the joy that filled the hearts of the shepherds who
received the news of Jesus' birth from the angels. It signifies the happiness
and excitement of the world as it receives the long-awaited Messiah.
SCRIPTURE READING: Luke 2:10-11
(The priest lights the first
candle)
PRAYER:
Loving God, as we light the third candle of this Advent wreath, we rejoice in your presence. May the light of this candle fill our hearts with the joy of your salvation. Help us to share this joy with others, spreading your love and happiness to all we encounter. Amen.
