Fourth Sunday of Advent Date in the current year: December 22, 2024
The last Sunday before Christmas is known as the fourth Sunday of Advent. This Sunday finishes the four-week period before Christmas, and many families observe special traditions on this day.Advent is one of the oldest Christian observances and it's believed, that it's been observed since the 4th century. Many Advent ancient traditions are still observed today.
The last candle is lit on the Advent wreath. If the wreath has five candles, then the last one is lit on the Christmas eve, but mostly the fourth Sunday of Advent marks the last lighting of the candles of the wreath. This last candle is known as Angel's candle and it symbolizes the annunciation of Christ's birth. The fourth candle is purple as well as other two, only the Shepherd's candle is rose and it's lit on the third Sunday.
There is a special prayer to be read on this day, the Magnificat or the Song of Mary. This prayer is one of the most ancient Christian hymns and, perhaps, the earliest Marian hymn.
Children still enjoy the Advent calendar and open its presents every day.
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- Religious Holidays
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