Advent Symbols in Christian Worship: A Deeper Look

As the season of Advent approaches, churches around the world begin to prepare for the celebration of Christ’s birth. Advent is a time of anticipation, reflection, and waiting, marked by both personal devotion and communal worship. One of the ways churches visually express this sacred season is through symbols rich in meaning and tradition. These symbols help guide the congregation through the themes of Advent: hope, peace, joy, and love.

The Advent Wreath

Perhaps the most well-known Advent symbol is the Advent wreath. This circular arrangement of evergreen branches represents eternal life, while the four candles around it signify the four weeks of Advent. Traditionally, three of the candles are purple or blue, symbolizing royalty and expectation. while the third candle, often pink, represents joy and is lit on the third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. Some wreaths also include a central white candle, known as the Christ Candle, which is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to celebrate the birth of Christ

The Nativity Scene

The nativity scene, or crèche, is a beloved Advent symbol that visually depicts the story of Christ’s birth. Churches often set up a nativity display in the sanctuary, featuring figures of Mary, Joseph, the baby Jesus, shepherds, angels, and the Magi. Some churches add a new figure to the scene each week, building anticipation for the arrival of the Christ child. This powerful visual reminder helps worshippers connect with the humble origins of Jesus and the profound significance of His coming.

The Jesse Tree

The Jesse Tree is an ancient Advent tradition that traces the genealogy of Christ through symbols from the Old Testament. Based on Isaiah 11:1, which refers to a shoot coming from the “stump of Jesse” (King David’s father), the tree represents the family tree of Jesus. Each day during Advent, a new ornament is added to the tree, symbolizing a story from Scripture leading up to Christ’s birth. This helps worshippers reflect on God’s faithfulness throughout history and the fulfillment of His promises.

• link on images with directions to make your own Jesse tree ornaments

Stars

Stars are another powerful symbol during Advent, representing the star of Bethlehem that led the Magi to Jesus. Many churches hang star ornaments or lights during this season, filling the sanctuary with light that reflects the hope and guidance found in Christ. The star reminds us of God’s direction and presence, even in the darkest of times, and serves as a visual representation of the light of Christ coming into the world

The Chrismon Tree

Similar to the Jesse Tree, the Chrismon tree is a tree decorated with Christian symbols, known as “chrismons.” These ornaments often include crosses, doves, fish, and crowns, each representing a different aspect of Christ’s life and mission. The tree is typically white and gold, symbolizing purity and the kingship of Jesus. This visual reminder enhances the worship experience and deepens the congregation’s connection to the life of Christ.

*link on image from Counting Pinecones

The Color Purple (or Blue)

In many Christian traditions, the color purple is used during Advent to symbolize both ppreparation and royalty. Purple altar cloths, stoles, and banners create a visual atmosphere of reverence, reminding worshippers of both the majesty of Christ and the need for spiritual preparation. Some churches use blue during Advent, representing hope and the coming of the Messiah. Whether purple or blue, these colors draw the eye and the heart toward the coming King.

Evergreens

Evergreens are often used as a symbol of eternal life in Advent worship. In wreaths, garlands, or Christmas trees, their lush green reminds us that God’s promises are everlasting and that, even in the “winter” seasons of life, His grace remains constant. The use of evergreens in church decorations invites worshippers into a space that reflects both the beauty of creation and the hope of resurrection.

Bells

While bells are often associated with Christmas itself, their use in Advent is a reminder of the joyful anticipation of Christ’s coming. Some churches incorporate bells into their Advent services, using them to signal key moments in the liturgy or as part of musical worship. The ringing of bells stirs the heart, reminding us that Christ’s arrival is near and that joy is on the horizon.

Advent symbols provide a rich tapestry of meaning that enhances the worship experience, connecting the congregation visually to the deep spiritual truths of the season. From the hope of the Advent wreath to the joyful proclamation of bells, these symbols invite us into a time of reflection, anticipation, and celebration as we prepare for the coming of Christ. As we engage with these visual representations, our worship becomes more than words—it becomes a lived, shared experience that prepares our hearts for the wonder of Christmas.

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