Advent is the beginning of the liturgical year in Western Christianity, and the Advent wreath is a centuries old Christian tradition. The word “Advent” is derived from the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming”, which is a translation of the Greek word parousia that is found in the New Testament.
When we expect guests in our home we turn on lights as we anticipate their arrival with joy. In Advent, Christians prepare for and anticipate the celebration of the birth of Christ at Christmas. By lighting a candle on each of the four Sundays prior to Christmas Day, the light in the wreath gets ever brighter as the day approaches. Advent wreaths are seen in many churches, but are also commonly displayed in homes as families come together to light a candle each week. If an Advent wreath is new to you, I encourage you to read a bit more to find out the symbolism in the candle colors, the circular shapes, the evergreens and the weekly themes of hope, peace, joy and love. For Christians there are many beautiful symbols in the Advent wreath, especially during this time of year as we prepare for the celebration Jesus' birth on Christmas Day.
Last year when I bought my Advent candles and decorated with my beloved needlepoint stockings, ornaments, pillows and nativity, I thought how lovely it would be to stitch Advent candles. I had needlepoint everything Christmas, but not an Advent wreath. The search ensued, but I never found what I was looking for. Throughout Advent and Christmas that year I continued to think about and search for needlepoint Advent candles, and even began to envision what I wanted them to look like. I simply could not let go of the idea, so I knew the only solution was to design them for myself. And only thanks to the support, encouragement and enthusiasm of others, I did. I'm still shocked, but mostly overjoyed that so many of you like them too. They are certainly very special to me.
I cannot wait to see how you stitch, finish and display them in your homes. I truly believe the possibilities are endless, because needlepoint people are some of the most creative people I've ever known!
I hope you find delight in stitching these Advent candles and welcoming this tradition into your home through your love of needlepoint. Christian friends, may all of your Advents be blessed and Christmases merry too!
I'm excited to share that canvases pre-ordered by retailers from The Advent Collection will ship to them on June 1. You may reach out to your preferred needlepoint retailer if you'd like to order.
xoxo,
MK