2nd Advent

It’s the day we light the second candle on the Advent wreath—the Bethlehem Candle. Like the Prophecy Candle, the Bethlehem Candle is purple, signifying seriousness, repentance, and royalty. The Bethlehem Candle recalls the preparations Mary and Joseph made for Jesus’ birth.

Their preparations were probably not unlike ours when we’re looking forward to the birth of a child. Joseph and Mary undoubtedly wanted to be sure their son would have the necessary food, clothing, and shelter for life in this world.