Advent - "the coming" - refers to the four-week season of preparation for the coming of Jesus on Christmas Day and the anticipation of His coming again. Advent begins the Sunday nearest November 30 and continues until December 24. Many observe this holy season by lighting candles each of the four Sundays in Advent. Three of the candles are purple, reminding us to pray and serve others lovingly to help prepare the way for Jesus. The candle for the third Sunday of Advent is rose-colored which symbolizes our joy as the birth of Jesus draws near.