The first Advent was officially recognized by the Church in the sixth century as a time for the faithful to reflect on the meaning of Christmas and for newcomers to prepare for Baptism.
Taken from the Latin word adventus, meaning "arrival," until about the middle of the 20th century, the season of Advent focused more on the second arrival of Jesus -- that is, his return to judge the living and the dead. But over the past 75 years or so, Advent and Christmas have morphed more into a joyful season and holiday especially for children and families, as the focus shifted to anticipation of the arrival of the baby Jesus.
The Advent wreath, perhaps the most well-known symbol of the season, comes to us from the German Christian tradition, whose roots go back to Viking times. Ancient converts to the faith in those far Northern climes, where nights were and are nearly endless during the harsh winter, recognized the potent symbolism of the promise of new life in the person of the tender baby Jesus, born out of such austere and seemingly hopeless conditions.
Where all other vegetation died to the ground, the Norse noted the majestic evergreens for their ability to hold their green needles and thrive despite the cold, dark, and snow. They fashioned greenery from these trees into a ring as a symbol of their hope and undeterred faith; the branches, too, would surely add a hopeful bit of color and aroma to the home.
A candle was added to mark the passing of the days in December, the darkest month of the year, which culminates with the Sun's return and lengthening days beginning on Dec. 21, and Christmas, of course, on Dec. 25.
The tradition spread across Europe and more candles were added, eventually evolving into the familiar wreath with three violet candles and one rose candle we know today.
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