Why are the colors of the candles of an advent wreath the rose and purple that they are?

The rose (pink) candle that is to be lit on the 3rd Sunday is to symbolize Joy, and for us to turn our hearts towards God.


The purple (or sometimes blue) represents the sovereignity of Christ. Different churches celebrate Advent in different ways, and sometimes burn different colors, including gold and white-which is generally referred to as the Christ candle.