Fourth Sunday of Advent

The Fourth Sunday of Advent, or Vierte Adventssonntag in German, is an important part of the Christian liturgical calendar, marking the time of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, notably celebrated on Christmas Day. It serves as the final countdown to Christmas, amplifying anticipation and spiritual reflection. A unique aspect of this day includes the lighting of the fourth candle on the Advent wreath, symbolizing love and often called the 'Angel’s candle', marking the angels' announcement of Christ's arrival.

The observance of Advent, of which the Fourth Sunday forms a part, can be traced back to 567 AD in the monasteries of Gaul, where monks were ordered to fast during this period. However, the tradition of the Advent wreath originated in Germany in the 16th century among Lutherans. In terms of the Fourth Sunday of Advent, its emphasis for German Christians tends to be on the heavenly messengers who brought news of Jesus’s coming, therefore it is a day especially dedicated to angelic heralding.

On the Fourth Sunday, many German families gather around the Advent wreath, nestled with four candles, and light the final candle. It is custom to read scriptures and sing hymns, focusing on the love God showed through the gift of Jesus. Special church services enrich the prayerful character of the day. This Sunday, held just before Christmas, can differ each year, but always falls between December 18th and 24th. Moreover, if Christmas Eve falls on a Sunday, then it replaces the Fourth Sunday of Advent, as it is seen as more significant liturgically to German Christians.