Fourth Sunday of Advent—Angel Candle

On the Fourth Sunday of Advent, we light the final purple candle — the Angel’s Candle, symbolizing love. Paul reminds us to rejoice always, for the Lord is near. John the Baptist points us beyond himself to Christ, the true Light who comes into the world. As Advent draws to a close, we prepare not only for the celebration of His birth, but also for His coming again in glory.

Lectionary Readings (Fourth Sunday in Advent)

• Epistle: Philippians 4:4–7
  Paul exhorts the church: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” The Lord is near; be anxious for nothing, but in prayer and thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. His peace will guard your hearts and minds.

• Gospel: John 1:19–28
  John the Baptist testifies to the priests and Levites that he is not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet, but the voice crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the Lord.” He points beyond himself to the One who is coming.

• Psalm/Gradual: Often drawn from Psalm 145:18, Psalm 40:1 — “The Lord is near to all who call on Him… I waited patiently for the Lord; He inclined to me and heard my cry.”