Blessing of an Advent Wreath within Mass:
The celebrant with hands outstretched prays:
Lord God,
your Church joyfully awaits the coming of its Saviour,
who enlightens our hearts
and dispels the darkness of ignorance and sin.
Pour out your blessings upon us
as we light the candles of this wreath;
may their light reflect the splendour of Christ
who is Lord, for ever and ever. Amen.
Or:
Lord our God,
we praise you for your Son, Jesus Christ:
He is Emmanuel, the hope of the peoples,
He is the Wisdom that teaches and guides us,
He is the saviour of every nation.
Lord God,
let your blessing come upon us
as we light the candles of this wreath.
May the wreath and its light
be a sign of Christ’s promise to bring us salvation.
May He come quickly and not delay.
We ask this through Christ our Lord,
Amen.
The first candle is then lit.