The history of Christmas Wreath tells us that the wreaths have their origin in the early times of pre-Christianity. The Eastern European people used to light up evergreen wreaths in the cold winter evenings with the hope of early spring and sunshine.
This custom was kept up by the Christians and now, this is primarily a Catholic custom. This custom or tradition is followed during Advent.
Generally, there are four candles in a circle of evergreen with another candle in the middle. The symbolism of evergreen is the continuity of life and the prickly holly reminds one of the Cross. The circle of the wreath is without beginning or end meaning that God is eternal, soul immortal and life everlasting. The wreath is decorated with nuts, pinecones and other seedpods which symbolize resurrection and life. We find from the history of Christmas wreath either four white candles or three violet and one rose candle are used. Each day one candle is lighted and the middle candle is lighted on Christmas Eve to signify the arrival of Jesus. A short prayer can be held with the lighting of the candle. Families light up the Advent wreath when they are about to have dinner. The prayer is held after the blessing of the food. This is the time when the faithful reaffirm his belief in the tenets of Christianity.
There are different types of Christmas wreaths. The history of Christmas wreath tells us that the Advent wreath has a special place as it symbolizes belief, prayers and hopes. The other type is the decorative wreaths. These wreaths decorate the home or Christmas tree and are mainly ornamental. Discover all about Christmas wreaths from Christmas Carnivals.
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