Week 1 - The Candle of Hope (Advent) — Daily Reflections and Prayers
Week 1 — The Candle of Hope
As Advent begins we light the first candle — the Candle of Hope. This week invites us to trust in God's promises: that light breaks through darkness, that God is faithful, and that dawn will come. Each day below includes a short Scripture, a brief reflection, and a prayer you can use in your morning devotion or family time.
Tip: After reading, consider lighting a candle through our service to unite your intention with prayer at the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima.
Day 1 — The Promise of Light
Reflection: As Advent begins, we remember that God’s light is stronger than all darkness. His promise brings peace to every waiting heart. Hope is not a mere wish but a confident trust in God’s faithful presence.
Prayer: Lord, may Your light enter my heart and fill me with hope as I begin this Advent journey. Amen.
Light a Candle for HopeDay 2 — Trust in God’s Timing
Reflection: Advent teaches holy patience — a waiting that deepens our trust. Even when God’s answers seem delayed, His love and purpose are never absent. In the quiet waiting, faith is strengthened.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, teach me to trust Your timing. Fill my waiting with peace and steady hope. Amen.
Light a Candle in TrustDay 3 — Hope Born in Humility
Reflection: The Savior was born in humility — a stable and simplicity. God’s glory often shines in the quiet, unexpected places. Hope grows where hearts are humble and open to grace.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to find hope in humble places and to welcome Your presence in the quiet corners of my life. Amen.
Light a Candle for Humble FaithDay 4 — The Promise of the Prophets
Reflection: The prophets carried hope across generations, speaking of a Savior who would come. Their faithfulness teaches us to hold firm to God’s promises and to trust that He fulfills what He has spoken.
Prayer: God of promise, grant me the faith of the prophets — steadfast, patient, and trusting in Your faithful word. Amen.
Light a Candle for PromiseDay 5 — The Joy of Expectation
Reflection: Hope and joy are companions. Even in trials, the expectation of Christ’s coming fills us with a quiet, steady joy that helps us persevere and pray without ceasing.
Prayer: Lord, fill my heart with joyful hope; help me to rejoice in Your presence now and in the promise of Your coming. Amen.
Light a Candle for JoyDay 6 — Preparing the Way
Reflection: Each small act of kindness, each moment of forgiveness, prepares a place for Christ. Our daily choices lay out a welcome path for the Lord to enter our lives more fully.
Prayer: Jesus, help me prepare a straight path for You in my heart by living with mercy, generosity, and attentive prayer. Amen.
Light a Candle to Prepare the WayDay 7 — The Dawn of Salvation
Reflection: The week closes with the promise of dawn. God’s mercy rises like the morning sun, bringing renewal and the sure hope that salvation has come and will come again.
Prayer: Lord, as the dawn approaches, renew my spirit and make me an instrument of Your hope and peace. Amen.
Light a Candle for the Coming DawnAs Week 1 closes, let the flame of hope continue to burn in your heart. If this week has touched you, carry the light into your days and share it with others.
Read Week 2 — FaithLight a Candle for Advent
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” — Hebrews 10:23