Fourth Sunday of Advent

Fourth Sunday of Advent Quick Facts - SE

AKA NameAdvent 4
HashtagsCompiled on#Advent
Related Hashtags#Christmas
2023 Date24 December 2023
2024 Date22 December 2024

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Fourth Sunday of Advent

Fourth Sunday of Advent in
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The Fourth Sunday of Advent on the liturgical calendar marks the last Sunday before Christmas. It signifies anticipation and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus Christ. In liturgical churches, this day focuses on themes of love and the impending joyous arrival of the Savior. The readings, prayers, and hymns during services are geared towards these themes. The very significant Advent Wreath, a circular garland of evergreen branches representing eternity, has four candles. Each Sunday of Advent, a candle on the wreath is lit; on the Fourth Sunday, the last candle is ignited.

In Sweden, the observance of the Fourth Sunday of Advent is deeply rooted in history and tradition. Formerly, it was called "St. Thor's Day" or "Little Yule" and thе date was a single day before Christmas Day. In the old Julian Calendar it used to be marked on December 24. Yet, with the introduction of the Gregorian calendar in the 18th century, this date became movable. This day is seen as an occasion for friends and family to come together, fostering unity and communal reflection on the approaching Christmas.

Fourth Sunday of Advent in Sweden often includes intimate gatherings at home, rich in experiencing traditional Swedish customs. It's common to observe family members lighting the last candle on the Advent wreath and children opening the final door on their Advent calendar. Additionally, special services are held in churches across the nation. The day typically concludes with a family meal, frequently including traditional Swedish Christmas dishes. The exact date of the Fourth Sunday of Advent in Sweden can vary, falling between December 18 and 24, depending on how the days of the week align with Christmas Day.

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Fourth Sunday of Advent facts

  • The Fourth Sunday of Advent relates to the birth of Christ. As such, the candle for the Fourth Sunday is known as the Angel's candle.
  • The theme for the Fourth Sunday of Advent is peace. In an account by Evangelist Luke, upon the announcement of the birth of Christ, an angel said Peace on Earth, Good will toward men.
  • The Advent wreath is believed to have been used as early as the 16th century. German theologian and pastor Johann Hinrich Wichern is credited with the modern practice of lighting candles as part of the wreath.
  • Swedish Advent wreaths often include a circular base made of straw, evergreen branches, or other natural materials. This base is adorned with four candles, which are lit in a weekly progression throughout Advent.
  • In Sweden, the Fourth Sunday of Advent is often celebrated with traditional food such as saffron buns (lussekatter) and gingerbread cookies (pepparkakor). They are often served along with traditional Swedish glogg, which is a warm, spiced wine drink similar to mulled wine.

Top things to do in Sweden for Fourth Sunday of Advent

  • Pray and rejoice in peace. The Fourth Sunday represents peace. Peace can be reached despite trouble or conflict through God's love.
  • Attend an event or Mass in celebration of Advent. Be sure to abide by CDC guidelines and social distance.
  • People in Sweden commonly finish decorating their homes for the holiday season, including putting up Christmas trees, lights, and ornaments.
  • Popular Christmas markets such as Gamla Stan Christmas Market and Skansen Christmas Market in Stockholm and Liseberg Christmas Market in Gothenburg are bustling with visitors during the Advent period, where people can buy handmade crafts, decorations, and seasonal treats.

References and related sites

www.mercyhome.org: Purpose of Advent Wreath and Candles
Fourth Sunday of Advent Facts

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