Flaunt the Color Purple

Purple is the color most associated with Advent. Some churches have switched to blue in recent years as a symbol of hope, expectation, and the Virgin Mary. But I like purple because it feels unusual, more regal. It symbolizes royalty, repentance, and reflection. Even though the blue hue of Advent is often vivid, I associate blue with ordinary things like uniforms and jeans. Go for blue if you want, but I’m sticking with purple, an extraordinary color.

Using purple throughout your house is not about creating another chance for decorative opportunities but is a visual reminder of the Advent season. Purple, for me, acts as a stoplight. It says: “Wait. It’s not Christmas yet; slow dow; pay attention to this time.”

• String the tree with purple lights. Or put lights on a large houseplant.
• Put purple lights on the outside of your house or in your yard. They might be a good conversation starter with your neighbors.
• Make or buy purple granulated sugar. Sprinkle it on cereal or ice cream for a special treat during Advent.

Excerpted from Sybil MacBeth’s new book, The Season of the Nativity: Confessions and Practices of an Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany Extremist (Paraclete Press, 2014).