Purple is used to symbolize the love that comes through Christ. This third Advent candle represents the joy that the shepherds felt when they found out about the coming of the Messiah. It is also ...

Before Christ came wreaths ... usually fir or spruce, a 4-candle holder in a wreath shape, and 4 candles, 3 of purple and 1 of rose or pink, 1 each for the four weeks of Advent.