How to Make a Covenant Wreath

Each candle is lit on the four Sundays leading up to Christmas.

Advent wreaths are an important custom of the Christian faith, to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. They are adorned with four candles, three purple and one pink -- signifying hope, preparation, love and joy. The Advent season starts on the Sunday four weeks prior to Christmas day, and each Sunday, a candle is lit and prayers are said. This is a time for family and loved ones to join together. Building an Advent wreath is a joyous occasion that symbolizes eternity and God's love.

Things You'll Need

• Floral-foam-filled wreath form -- 14 to 16 inches in diameter
• Florist's picks
• Evergreen sprigs
• Gardener's shears
• Large bowl
• Florist's plastic candle holders
• Candles -- 3 purple, 1 pink
• Ribbons or other decorations (optional)

Instructions

1. Soak the wreath form in water for 3 to 4 hours. Allow the water to permeate the foam completely.

2. Select evergreen sprigs to attach to the wreath. You can use almost any type you wish -- such as cedar, pine, spruce, holly or others you find in your backyard or purchase from a nursery. Cut the sprigs fresh, using gardener's shears, and allow them to soak for a few hours in a large bowl of water.

3. Place the wreath on a flat work surface. Apply the evergreen sprigs to the foam using florist pics, or pierce the branches' ends directly into the foam, if they are stiff enough. Leave spaces between the springs for candle holders.

4. Push the spiked ends of the florist's candle holders into the foam, among the evergreen sprigs. Position the holders at four points along the wreath, so that they form the corners of a square.

5. Insert candles into the holders.

6. Tie ribbon into bows and attach them around the wreath, if desired. The wreath is not supposed to be elaborate or overly festive with decor, so add one or two ribbons and some modest items like berries and pine cones -- keeping it simple.

Tips & Warnings

• Beeswax candles burn slower and don't drip as much as paraffin wax.

• Evergreens can become a fire hazard if they dry out. Remember to water your wreath regularly.

References

• Catholic Culture.org: Advent Wreath: Background and How To Make Your Own Wreath
• Sunday School Network.com: The Making and the Meaning of an Advent Wreath
• Save on Crafts: DIY: How to Make a Wreath