In many households around the world, the traditional advent wreath is part of the holiday season. Four candles are placed on the table in a wreath of evergreens, one to be lighted on each of the four Sndas preceding Christmas. Sometimes a central fifth candle is lighted on Christmas Day.

The tradition may well go back to the ancient firewheel, lighted in the darkest time of year to lure the sun back and ensure another spring. The placement of the candles at the four compass points of the wreath invokes the natural spirits of the North, East, South and West and the primal elements of earth, air, fire and water. The candles may also represent the seasons of the year and the seasons of our lives.

Lighting the advent candles, one at a time on each December Sunday, is a thoughtful and joyous way to prepare for Christmas, the winter solstice, and the turning of the year.

On the first Sunday, light the candle on the eastern side of the wreath and speak these words:

Spirit of the East, spirit of air, of morning and springtime: Be with us as the sun rises, in times of beginning, times of planting. Inspire us wth the fresh breath of courage as we go forth into new adventures.

On the second Sunday, relight the first candle and repeat the words above. Then light the candle on the southern side of the wreath and speak these words:

Spirit of the South, spirit of fire, of noontime and summer: Be with us through the heat of the day and help us to be ever growing. Warm us with strength and energy for th ework that awaits us.

On the third Sunday, relight the first two candles and repeat the appropriate words. Then light the candle on the western side of the wreath and speak these words:

Spirit of the West, spirit of water, of evening and autumn: Be with us as the sun sets and help us to enjoy a rich harvest.

Flow through us with a cooling, healing quietness and bring us peace.

On the fourth Sunday, relight the first three candles and repeat the appopriate words. Then light the candle on the northern side of the wreath and speak these words:

Spirit of the North, spirit of earth, of nighttime and winter: Be with us in the darkness, in the time of gestation. Ground us in the wisdom of the changing seasons as we celebrate the spiraling journey of our lives.

Blessed be!