Many Christians observe Advent with a wreath and candle-lighting ritual over the course of 5 weeks leading up to the birth of Jesus on Christmas. By way of one example, blogging buddy Willym always marks Advent with special posts on his blog every year.
The pagan equivalent is an Advent of the Sun Altar with a wreath and candle-lighting ritual over the course of 5 weeks leading up to the rebirth of the Sun on the Winter Solstice. For the first time, I'm trying my hand at creating such an altar.
My evergreen wreath and candles are flanked by Sankta Lucia, the Goddess of the Winter Solstice (given to me by my sister in 2019) and a charming Canadian Angel (given to me by blogging buddy Robyn Alana Engel a few years ago). There are 4 candles in the centre of the wreath which will be cumulatively lit one at a time each Sunday night leading up to the Winter Solstice on December 21, when the 5th and final candle will be lit.
This countdown to the Winter Solstice is a meditative and contemplative act. In darkness, the candle(s) are lit, their light celebrated in a way that is meaningful to the celebrant and then extinguished. Time is also taken to experience the full darkness. Both holy light and sacred darkness bring blessings and healing.
Here is the First Candle --
You are welcome to join me again next Sunday!
[Photos © Debra She Who Seeks, 2025]
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