Chloe Adams
The use of candles in religious ceremonies is a tradition that has been practised for centuries, with the symbolism of light and candles holding a significant role in the Catholic Church. Candles are often lit during Mass, liturgical processions, evening prayer ceremonies, funeral processions, and to show reverence to the Blessed Sacrament. The light from the candle is believed to signify the prayer offered in faith, entering the light of God, with burning votive candles seen as an offering seeking favour from the Lord or a saint. The Paschal candle, a large candle used in liturgies in Western Christianity, is lit during Easter and other special occasions, such as baptisms and funerals, symbolising the risen light of Christ.
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What You'll Learn
Candles as offerings
The use of candles as offerings is a centuries-old tradition in many religions, including Catholicism, Lutheranism, Anglicanism, Judaism, and Roman Paganism.
In the Catholic Church, candles, particularly votive candles, are lit as offerings before statues or images of saints, Jesus, or the Virgin Mary. This practice is also observed in Lutheran and Anglican churches, especially those that follow High Church or Anglo-Catholic traditions. The candles represent prayers offered to God or the saints, seeking their favour and intercession. In Catholic sacraments, such as baptism, the priest presents a candle lit from the Paschal candle, symbolising the light of Christ.
In the Eastern Orthodox Church, candles are lit before icons, typically of Jesus Christ or the Theotokos. These churches usually use long, thin candles placed in round containers with sockets or sand. Orthodox churches also have a separate place for candles lit for the departed, a practice also observed in Lutheran, Anglican, and Roman Catholic churches.
The symbolism of light and candles is significant in religious practices. In Judaism, a perpetual light was kept burning in temples and synagogues to signify the presence of God. Similarly, in Roman pagan culture, candles were used in processions to indicate divine favour and the presence of the gods.
The act of lighting a candle as an offering allows individuals to physically express their prayers and connect their body and soul to the divine. The light of the candle serves as a reminder of God's presence and the hope offered by religious figures like Christ.
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Candles in processions
Candles are used in processions for a variety of reasons and across different faiths. In Catholic processions, candles are often used to honour and reverence the Book of the Gospels, with the priest carrying the book being preceded by lay ministers carrying candles.
In other Catholic processions, candles are blessed by a priest before the procession begins. The faithful gather at a smaller church or other suitable place, holding unlit candles. The priest, wearing white vestments, approaches with the ministers and may wear a cope, which is set aside after the procession. While the candles are being lit, an antiphon or another appropriate chant is sung. When the chant is concluded, the priest addresses the people and encourages them to celebrate the rite of the feast day actively and consciously. The procession then begins, with all participants carrying lighted candles and singing antiphons or canticles.
The size and weight of candles used in processions vary depending on the specific tradition and purpose. Wax candles for processions are commonly available in sizes ranging from 1.8 x 47 cm to 3 x 78 cm, with weights of approximately 200 to 500 grams. These candles are often sold in packages, with the number of candles per package varying based on their size.
Candles play a significant role in creating a solemn atmosphere and expressing devotion during religious processions. The light of the candles symbolises faith, hope, and reverence for the sacred.
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Candles in the Sacrament of Baptism
The candle plays a significant role in the Sacrament of Baptism in the Catholic Church. The baptismal candle is a symbol of Christ, the "Light of the World", and represents the light of faith that has been bestowed upon the baptised person, who is now a child of the light. This light is never to be extinguished, hidden, or dimmed but is meant to shine forever.
During the Byzantine Rite of Baptism, the godfather lights the baptismal candle from the Easter Candle, signifying the passing of the light of Christ. The priest then offers a prayer, asking that the newly baptised person may "shine with the light of faith and good works". In the Latin Rite, the priest also addresses the parents and godparents, reminding them that the light of Christ has enlightened the child and that they must keep this light burning brightly.
The baptismal candle is not just a symbol during the ceremony but continues to hold significance throughout the baptised person's life. It is carefully kept in the home, and on the anniversary of their baptism, it is lit once more as the individual joyfully renews their baptismal vows. This occasion is observed as a personal feast day, marking the true birthday of supernatural life. The candle may also be lit on other solemn occasions, such as the first holy Communion, Wedding day, during serious illness, and even at the hour of death.
The preparation for baptism involves decorating the candle, which can be a collaborative effort involving older siblings, godparents, and other family members. The candle is then lit during the sacred Rite of Baptism, marking the beginning of the individual's journey as a child of God, illuminated by the light of Christ.
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Candles at funerals
Lighting candles at funerals is a timeless tradition that spans cultures and religions, symbolizing hope, reverence, and the eternal presence of the departed soul. The warm glow of the candle illuminates the space, providing solace and comfort to mourners in the darkness of grief. Each candle can represent a cherished memory, a special moment shared, or a bond that will forever endure.
Candles have been used in memorial services for centuries, with the tradition being traced back to ancient pagan rites and the beginnings of Christianity. In the context of funerals, lighting a candle symbolizes the journey of the soul from darkness into light, signifying hope, guidance, and the presence of a higher power. The ritual of lighting a candle to pay tribute to a life that has passed promotes reflection and signifies remembrance.
Memorial candles can be personalized to reflect the unique personality, interests, and beliefs of the deceased. Mourners may choose candles in specific colors, shapes, or scents that hold special significance. Candles can also be adorned with photographs, quotes, or symbols that evoke fond memories and celebrate the life of the deceased.
In some cultures and religious traditions, specific ceremonial rituals are associated with lighting candles at funerals. For example, in Jewish tradition, a Yahrzeit candle is lit on the anniversary of a loved one's death and burns for 24 hours. In Christian funerals, a candle is often placed near the casket or the altar as a symbol of the eternal light of Christ, and may be given to the family as a keepsake. In Hindu funerals, a lamp known as a "diya" is lit near the body to guide the soul on its journey.
The act of lighting candles at funerals provides an opportunity for mourners to express their collective grief and solidarity with one another. It serves as a cathartic and healing experience, offering a sense of closure and peace amidst the pain of loss. The soft glow of the candles provides a gentle reminder that love and memories endure beyond physical separation.
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Candles in the Catholic Church
The use of candles in the Catholic Church is deeply rooted in tradition and symbolism. The word candle, derived from the Latin 'candela' or 'candeo', meaning 'to burn', made its way into the English language as an ecclesiastical term, possibly as early as the eighth century.
Candles are used in the Catholic Church for a variety of reasons, including during Mass, liturgical processions, evening prayer ceremonies, funeral processions, and to show reverence to the Blessed Sacrament. The light of the candle is often associated with Christ, who is referred to as the "light of the world" in the Gospel of St. John. During the Sacrament of Baptism, the priest presents a candle lit from the Paschal candle, urging the newly baptised to "receive the light of Christ" and "keep the flame of faith alive" in their hearts.
Votive candles, in particular, are a common sight in Catholic churches. These candles are seen as offerings, indicating that the person lighting the candle is seeking a favour or help from God or the saint before whom the candle is placed. They are also lit as a way to extend prayers and show solidarity with the person for whom the prayer is being made. The size of votive candles varies, but they are typically small, about two inches tall and one and a half inches in diameter.
Candles are also used during special feast days, such as Candlemas, which celebrates the Presentation of Christ in the Temple and the Purification of Mary. On this day, the church holds a special procession and blessing of candles. Additionally, candles play a role in the blessing of ashes and palms, the dedication of churches and cemeteries, and the Mass of a newly ordained priest. They are present at every sacrament except that of Penance.
The use of candles in the Catholic Church is not just confined to religious rituals but also extends to personal and family devotions. Many Catholics have a tradition of lighting votive candles in their homes to request intercession during difficult times or to give thanks for answered prayers.
The light and warmth of candles have come to symbolise the presence of God, faith, and the sacred character of Jesus Christ. The physical act of lighting a candle and offering a small monetary donation is believed to bring one's entire being—body, mind, heart, and soul—into the act of praying.
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