The church season of Advent begins four Sundays before Christmas. It is a time of hope, of waiting, and of light that shines in the darkness.

Candles that bring light to a dark place are symbols of Advent.

Many Christians use a special wreath during Advent. One candle is lit on the first Sunday of Advent, two candles on the second Sunday, three on the third, and four candles on the Sunday just before Christmas. The white candle, representing Jesus, is lit on Christmas Day.

Although the Advent wreath with its burning candles is a beautiful Advent tradition, it may not be a safe option for families with young children (or cats!) or for people with physical limitations or those in facilities such as hospitals or nursing homes.

Instead, you can create a banner with removable flames to use as a visible (and safe) reminder of the light during Advent.

Supplies needed:

• Felt of any color (about 15″ x 18″) for banner backing
• 18″ dowel
• String or yarn
• Felt in purple, pink, white, yellow, and several shades of green
• Velcro
• Small red pom poms
• Craft glue

• Cut three rectangles (about 2″ x 6″) out of purple felt and one (about 2″ x 6″) out of pink felt.
• Cut one rectangle (about 2″ x 8″) of white felt.
• Cut four candle flames out of yellow felt.
• Cut 10-12 leaf shapes out of shades of green felt.

Fold the top edge of the banner to the back about 1″ and glue or sew it in place to make a rod pocket to slide the dowel through. Tie yarn, string, or ribbon to each end of the dowel for hanging.

Next assemble the banner using craft glue or by sewing the felt candles and leaves to the backing. Start with the white candle in the center, then place the purple and pink candles on either side and arrange green leaves and red pom pom berries at the base of the candles.

IMPORTANT: Do NOT glue or sew the flames to the banner!

Attach a small piece of Velcro to the back of each candle flame. The hook side of Velcro will hold the felt flames to your banner so they can be removed when the candles are not “lit.”

Hang your banner where you can see it every day during Advent, and add one flame on each of the four Sundays before Christmas. Add the flame to the white candle on Christmas Day, and remember that Jesus came to bring light and hope to the world.

2 The people walking in darkness
     have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of deep darkness
     a light has dawned.

6 For to us a child is born,
     to us a son is given,
     and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
     Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
     Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9: 2, 6