The Wreaths of Christmas

An Article by Mary Phillips...

As we ride through Ashton Wood these days, we know very quickly that Christmas “is a comin’”.  We cannot miss the signs with all the lights, snowmen, Santa and manger scenes appearing in our neighbors’ yards.  But I think the most graphic signs are the green wreaths adorned with beautiful red bows that hang in our neighbors’ windows. To me, it would not be Christmas if those symbols were missing.

As you know, the wreath is an assortment of flowers, leaves, fruits, twigs or various materials that is constructed to resemble a ring.  The ones we see in Ashton Wood are usually made from evergreens. In ancient times, because evergreens lasted throughout the harshest winters, pagan people felt they were full of spirits.

Evergreens have been in use for centuries, first in ancient Rome, hung on doors to represent victory..  Because the wreath’s circle had no beginning or end, it became natural for it to become a symbol of everlasting life.   It was also believed that the holly wreath with its sharp, pointed leaves represented the crown of thorns worn by Jesus Christ on the cross. The little red berries symbolized drops of blood.

In Christianity, wreaths are used to observe the Advent season, in preparation for Christmastide. These wreaths, as with other Advent and Christmas decorations, are often set up on the first Sunday of Advent, a custom that is sometimes done liturgically, through a hanging of the greens ceremony. For every Sunday of Advent, starting with the fourth Sunday before Christmas, a candle is inserted in the wreath.   All of the Advent wreaths have four candles, four colored ones inserted around the outside during Advent and a white Christ candle lighted on Christmas Day. Advent and Christmas wreaths are constructed of evergreens to represent everlasting life brought through Jesus and the circular shape of the wreath represents God, with no beginning and no end.  While Advent wreaths are erected on stands or placed on tables, Christmas wreaths are often hung on doors or walls.

This Christmas, as you observe your neighbors’ decorations I hope you will have a new perspective of the Christmas wreath.  It is not just a pretty green and red decoration to adorn our windows.  It is a symbol of something much larger that transcends time and place.  May you enjoy this symbol with a renewed spirit and sense of joy and love.

The wreath is a circle of evergreen leaves

It reminds us of faith from above.

Its promise that Christmas is coming is true

A promise filled with Christ’s love.