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Each year as advent approaches there is a joy for the return of the  advent and then Christmas season. But there is also the concern for fire. The process of advent involves lighting and keeping lit 4 candles throughout the 4 weeks of advent.

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The tradition of advent started in the 4^th century in its present form in what would now be Germany, although there is some that say Sweden. It started as a pagan ritual for the long winter nights where a wheel had candles attached to them to help light the long winter nights that have the usual longer periods of darkness.

Within the Catholic Church the forty days preceding Christmas became the period of Advent. Set as a penitential period similar to lent this ran for the six weeks. Eventually this became the four weeks we have now. But in the modern day what that translates is into 4 weeks where advent candles are burning in people’s homes.

Through the centuries there have been four candles. They consist of three purple and one pick as well as the optional white Christ candle that can be added on Christmas ever. In order to improve safety there are several new advent candles, which allow for the observances of the Advent Season, yet maintain safety using battery operated Advent candles.

There has been much advancement in the use of flameless candles. But with advent and heavy emphasis on the use of the advent candle, the significance of lighting the advent candle and allowing it to burn during family times, the electric candle needed to have a special quality about them .

 LED advent candles are now gaining popularity and although they are far more expensive than a traditional candle, they do not need to be replaced annual  like the traditional wax candles and they also don’t need the care up keep and do not carry the safety concerns as a traditional candle would.  LED advent candles also have technology in them that allows them to flicker like a regular candle would giving an authentic feel to the advent wreath. Ambiance and tradition do not need to be sacrificed for safety. This by far may be one of the nicest features of a flameless advent candle.

Other reasons to consider electronic advent candles is for families with small children. Advent has become a way to teach our children of the history of advent. the meaning of the candles. Why we light them and how the promise of Christ is based in the Old Testament. Advent helps focus us on that. The church also encourages the children to participate in the advent practices and encourages the oldest child to light the candle while the head of the family, usually the father reads from the Old Testament.  There is grave concern in children lighting candles and often that practice would get overlooked in lieu of child safety.  Because there is no open flame with battery operated or LED Advent candles, children can now safely participate in their faith. The benefits of this far exceed any additional cost.