Symbolism of the evergreen branches

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In yesterday's post we saw the new centerpieces being prepared in the cellar.
Today they are in place on the refectory tables.
And the first of the four big Advent candles is lit, on a bed of pine boughs.
One of the Sisters of Grandchamp explained to me that the branches are reminiscent of the palm and olive branches of the first Palm Sunday in Jerusalem, but because palm and olive trees do not grow here in Switzerland, the fragrant local evergreen boughs are used instead, now during the season of Advent. 
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First Sunday of Advent

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A sure sign that Advent is beginning! 
One of my assignments here as a volunteer at the monastic community in Switzerland is to gather pretty leaves, seed pods, flowers, etc. and to arrange them in little vases for the guest rooms. 
When I went down to the cave (French for "cellar") to look for secateurs yesterday, I got a sneak preview of the red and green centerpieces that the real flower-sister had created for the refectory (dining room) tables. 
And so last night Advent was indeed ushered in.
For my Christian friends, it is a beautiful and important time of  active waiting for Christmas.
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Evergreen boughs in waiting

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This appeared today at the edge of the Grandchamp garden.
Piles of freshly-cut evergreen boughs.
A sure sign that Advent is coming.
Soon the creative artistic nuns will start transforming the branches into Advent wreaths and beautiful decorations for the Christmas season. 
Stay tuned (I'll be here until December 26, camera ready.)
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Crusader circles

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Two circles in the floor, from Crusader times, 12th century.

One complete with an Advent wreath.

One with marks from water-drawing ropes of the centuries.
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