Advent at Big Canoe Chapel
Worship with us during the four Sundays of Advent
The word Advent comes from the Latin term adventus meaning “arrival” or “coming,” particularly the coming of something having great importance. Advent season, then, is both a time of joy-filled, anticipatory celebration of the arrival of Jesus Christ and a preparatory period of repentance, meditation, and penance.
Many Christians celebrate Advent not only by thanking God for Christ’s first coming to Earth as a baby, but also for his presence among us today through the Holy Spirit, and in preparation and anticipation of his final coming at the end of the age.
Candle of Hope
We will light this candle during both the 9:00 and 10:30 worship services.
The first candle symbolizes hope and is called the “Prophet’s Candle.” The prophets of the Old Testament, especially Isaiah, waited in hope for the Messiah’s arrival.
Candle of Faith
We will light this candle during both the 9:00 and 10:30 worship services.
The second candle represents faith and is called “Bethlehem’s Candle.” Micah had foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, which is also the birthplace of King David. This candle reminds us of the journey of Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem.
Candle of Peace
We will light this candle during both the 9:00 and 10:30 worship services. The Peace Candle will come from the Holy Land to our country and to the Chapel to be shared with others in our community.
This candle represents peace and is called the “Angel’s Candle.” The angels announced that Jesus came to bring peace. He came to bring people peace with God and with each other again.
Candle of Joy
We will light this candle during both the 9:00 and 10:30 worship services.
This candle represents joy and is called the “Shepherd’s Candle.” The angels announced to the shepherds in the field, “good news of great joy to all people.” This candle is pink because, in Christian joy, the color rose signifies joy
Candle of Light and Purity
We will light this candle during the afternoon Communion and Candlelight service.
This candle represents light and purity and is called the “Christ Candle” as it represents Christ coming into the world. It is placed in the middle as a reminder of the preeminent place of Christ.