Advent Wreath at Corning Museum of Glass

For some Christians, the four Sundays and weeks before Christmas are observed as the Advent season—a time of waiting, preparation, and reflection that leads up to the celebration of Christmas and the arrival of the Christ Child. It is a time to illuminate and embellish homes and sanctuaries as a way to brighten and mark the darkest days of winter. The Advent wreath, traditionally made from evergreens, has no beginning or end, signifying the ever-living Christ. One of the wreath’s four candles—each symbolizing hope, peace, joy, or love—is lit each Sunday. With the lighting of each candle, a prayer is offered, providing a moment for reflection. The glass kinara represents a bridge spanning generations of African American people, and a waterfall cascades behind it to symbolize how they flow together. In this setting is a Kikombe cha Umoja (Unity Cup) signifying the gathering of family in celebration of a rich heritage. Behind the scene, a mirror invites the onlooker to see their reflection and contemplate what Umoja means to them.