The last Sunday of Advent, given to Mary and the nearness of the Nativity, with all four candles lit.
Dates
| Year | Dates | Reckoning | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | December 21, 2025 | ||
| 2026 | December 20, 2026 |
Recurrence: Gregorian liturgical rule: the Sunday before Christmas.
Significance
The fourth and last Sunday of Advent turns to Mary and to the events immediately before the birth of Jesus. Its readings tell of the angel's announcement and of Joseph's dream. With this Sunday the season of preparation reaches the threshold of Christmas, and the fourth candle of the wreath is lit.
Observance
The fourth candle of the Advent wreath is lit, completing the wreath before Christmas Eve.