First Sunday of Advent – Hope

• Theme: The theme for the first Sunday is hope, often referred to as the “Prophet’s Candle,” representing the hope of Christ’s coming, as foretold by the prophets.
• Scriptures:
  
  • Isaiah 9:2, 6-7 – Prophecy of the coming Messiah, the “Prince of Peace.”
  • Jeremiah 33:14-16 – God’s promise of a righteous Branch from David.
  • Romans 15:12-13 – Paul’s words on hope for the Gentiles through Christ.
  • Mark 13:32-37 or Matthew 24:36-44 – Jesus’ teaching on being watchful and prepared for His coming.
• Prayer: “Lord, as we light this first Advent candle, we open our hearts to You. Fill us with hope as we look forward to the fulfillment of Your promises in Jesus Christ. May His coming bring light into our lives and our world. Amen.”

Second Sunday of Advent – Peace

• Theme: The second Sunday emphasizes peace and is often called the “Bethlehem Candle,” focusing on the peace that Jesus, the Prince of Peace, brings to the world.
• Scriptures:
  
  • Isaiah 40:1-5 – A prophecy of comfort and the preparation for God’s coming.
  • Malachi 3:1-4 – The messenger preparing the way for the Lord.
  • Philippians 1:3-11 – Paul’s prayer for the growth of love and knowledge.
  • Luke 3:1-6 – John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus.
• Prayer: “Father God, as we light the second Advent candle, we remember Your gift of peace. Help us prepare our hearts for Your coming, and fill us with Your peace that passes understanding. May we be peacemakers in our lives, as we wait for Your kingdom. Amen.”

Third Sunday of Advent – Joy

• Theme: This Sunday is known as Gaudete Sunday, meaning “Rejoice” in Latin, with a focus on joy. It’s symbolized by the “Shepherd’s Candle” and celebrates the joy of Jesus’ coming.
• Scriptures:
  
  • Isaiah 12:2-6 – Rejoicing in God’s salvation.
  • Zephaniah 3:14-17 – Rejoicing because the Lord is in the midst of His people.
  • Philippians 4:4-7 – Paul’s exhortation to rejoice and be at peace in Christ.
  • Luke 3:10-18 – John the Baptist’s call to live lives that reflect the joy of salvation.
• Prayer: “Father God, as we light this third candle, we rejoice in the gift of Your Son, Jesus. May His joy fill our hearts and overflow in our lives. Help us share His joy with others and remember that You are near. Amen.”

Fourth Sunday of Advent – Love

• Theme: The fourth Sunday’s theme is love, represented by the “Angel’s Candle,” which reminds us of the angels’ message of love, peace, and good news.
• Scriptures:
  
  • Micah 5:2-5a – Prophecy of the ruler from Bethlehem who will bring peace.
  • 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – God’s covenant with David, promising a lasting kingdom.
  • Romans 16:25-27 – Paul’s closing benediction that reveals God’s plan of salvation.
  • Luke 1:26-38 – The angel Gabriel announces the birth of Jesus to Mary.
• Prayer: “Father God, as we light this final Advent candle, we celebrate Your great love. Thank You for sending Jesus, the light of the world, into our lives. Fill us with His love and let it shine through us to those around us. Amen.”

Christmas Day – Christ Candle

• Theme: The Christ Candle, often white, represents Jesus Himself, the Light of the World who has come to bring life, peace, and salvation.
• Scriptures:
  
  • Isaiah 9:2-7 – The prophecy of the child who will be called “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God.”
  • Luke 2:1-20 – The account of Jesus’ birth and the angels announcing it to the shepherds.
  • John 1:1-14 – The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.
• Prayer: “Father God, as we light the Christ Candle, we celebrate that You are with us. You are Immanuel, God with us. Thank You for the birth of Your son, our Lord & Savior Jesus. May His presence fill our hearts and home with Your gifts of hope, peace, joy, and love this Christmas. Amen.”