The word "advent" means "coming ... meaning of Christmas. The candles, in particular, put our focus on hope, faith, joy and peace. A new candle is lit every Sunday before Christmas.

The three purple candles will be lit on the first, second and fourth Sunday of Advent. The pink candle will be lit on the third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete means ‘to ...

The third Sunday of Advent — known as Gaudete Sunday — is commonly marked by the use of rose-colored candles and vestments, according to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.