Christmas Traditions: A Wreath of Flowers

(Photo courtesy of 1800flowers.com)

This is the start of a new series of topics delving into various Christmas traditions from around the world. Since we are in the midst of the Autumn months, it is but proper to discuss the age-old tradition of the hanging colorful harvest wreaths of Christmas flowers on walls and doors. 

During ancient times, wreaths were given to victors during the early Olympics by the Greeks and were worn as festive crowns by the Romans. Other cultures embraced this practice, usually as a symbol of immortality, which persists up to these modern times. The circular shape indicates the eternal nature of God's love which show no beginning and no end. 

 

The special Advent wreath of Catholic tradition includes five candles of different colors, which are lit during each Sunday of Advent together with a solemn prayer. The candles are basically a countdown to Christmas day but each has its own symbolism as shown below: 

1st: The Candle of Prophecy or Hope

2nd: The Candle of the Way

3rd: The Candle of Joy

4th: The Candle of Peace

5th: The Christ Candle of the Christmas Candle

Today's wreaths are both decorative and at the same time full of religious symbolism. It is a wonderful sign of humanity's overcoming of life's cycles of challenges, failures and victory. It is a wonderful sign of hope.

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Peter Allan C. Mariano

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