Catholic Candles: A Guide To Ordering

how to order catholic candles

Candles are an integral part of the Catholic religious experience. They are used in Catholic masses, paschal vigils, first communions, confirmations, weddings, and baptisms. They are also used in daily prayer and devotionals. T.H. Stemper Co. offers a wide array of candles for Catholic, Protestant, and Christian congregations. Live Your Faith Catholic and Corda also offer handcrafted Catholic candles. When ordering Catholic candles, it is important to consider the type of candle, the size, the style, and the material. Some popular options include beeswax, coconut soy wax, and paraffin wax. Candles can be purchased individually or in bulk, and prices may vary depending on the quantity ordered.

Characteristics Values
Websites CORDA, Live Your Faith Catholic, T. H. Stemper Co., Sisters of Carmel, The Catholic Company
Types of Candles Altar candles, devotional candles, prayer candles, saint candles, paschal candles, unity candles, votive candles, liturgical candles, sacramental candles, blessed candles, tealight candles, bottlelight candles
Materials Beeswax, coconut soy wax, paraffin, natural ingredients
Sizes Various, including 100% beeswax altar candles that are 12" to 6' tall
Scents Unscented, floral, light, natural Biblical aromas, carpenter's shop (leather and sawdust), rose
Shipping Free standard ground shipping for orders over $75 to the contiguous U.S. (excludes AK, HI, international orders)

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Where to buy Catholic candles online

There are several online retailers that offer Catholic candles for sale. T.H. Stemper Co. offers a wide array of candles for Catholic, Protestant, and other Christian congregations. Their selection includes altar candles, unity candles for weddings, and devotional candles for daily prayer. They also offer candle accessories such as glass and brass candle followers and drip protectors.

Live Your Faith is another online retailer that sells Catholic prayer and devotional candles, as well as Catholic jewelry. Their candles are handmade in small batches by a husband-and-wife team and are inspired by real prayers. They also offer free shipping within the contiguous US on orders over $75.

Everything Catholic also offers a range of Catholic candles, including beeswax candles, devotional candles, and seasonal candles. They provide free shipping on US orders over $75.

Corda is a family-run business that sells handcrafted Catholic saint candles. Their candles are made with sustainable ingredients and feature signature scents that are blended in-house.

Catholic Answers, Inc. offers 4 oz 100% soy candle tins with magnetic images on the lid that can be removed and placed on a car or fridge. They also have a 9 oz candle with a lead-free cotton wick that smells like the church on Easter Vigil.

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How to choose the right type of Catholic candle

When choosing a Catholic candle, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the type of wax used is important. Common wax types include paraffin, soy wax, coconut soy wax, and beeswax. Beeswax candles, in particular, hold cultural significance as they are traditionally associated with Christ, who called himself the "light of the world".

Secondly, the scent of the candle plays a crucial role in creating a devotional atmosphere. Some candles feature natural, Biblical aromas, such as the scent of a carpenter's shop, intended to evoke the image of Jesus and Mary visiting St. Joseph. Others may prefer unscented candles or those with more subtle, uplifting floral fragrances.

Thirdly, the size of the candle matters. Votive candles, a common type of Catholic candle, are typically small, measuring around 2 inches tall by 1.5 inches in diameter. However, they can also be significantly taller and wider, depending on the specific purpose and tradition.

Additionally, the colour of the candle holds symbolic value. Traditional votive candles are often white or beeswax yellow. Yellow candles may also be used to represent Saint Joseph.

Finally, the imagery and prayers depicted on the candle are essential. Some candles feature sacred images of saints, which are believed to offer protection from evil spirits and invite saintly intercession. Others may include meaningful prayers, bringing peace and hope into your home.

Ultimately, the choice of Catholic candle depends on your personal devotion, the intended purpose, and the specific traditions you follow.

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The significance of candles in the Catholic Church

The use of candles in the Catholic Church is steeped in history and symbolism. Candles are lit during significant Catholic celebrations and rituals, including Mass, liturgical and funeral processions, and evening prayer ceremonies.

In the Catholic Church, candles are often lit before a statue or sacred image of Jesus Christ, the Blessed Virgin Mary, or another saint. This practice dates back to early Christian times, with evidence suggesting that candles were burned at the tombs of saints and before sacred images and relics by the 200s and 300s, respectively. The act of lighting a candle is an offering that signifies a prayer, fulfilling a vow, or seeking help from the saint before whom the candle is lit. It also represents reverence and the presence of the Lord, even as the faithful continue with their day.

The symbolism of light is essential in the Catholic faith. Jesus referred to himself as "the light of the world," promising that those who follow him "shall possess the light of life." Thus, the lighting of candles in Catholic churches represents the light of Christ and the hope he brings to the world.

Catholic candles are often handcrafted with meaningful prayers and sacred imagery, using natural ingredients to create calming scents that fill worshippers with peace. These candles are more than just decorative items; they are spiritual companions, inspiring devotion and prayer.

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The different ways to use Catholic candles

The use of candles in the Catholic Church dates back centuries. They are often lit during prayer, either at home or in communal settings, and are believed to symbolise the light of Christ and the hope he brings to the world.

Blessing the candle

Before lighting a Catholic prayer candle, some people choose to have it blessed. This can be done by a priest or by the candle owner themselves, using sacred oil or holy water, or simply by praying to Christ.

Lighting the candle

When lighting a Catholic prayer candle, it is common to start the prayer and light the candle simultaneously. The candle can be extinguished during the prayer, but it should not be blown out, as this is believed to symbolise blowing away the prayer. Instead, it should be snuffed out or allowed to self-extinguish.

Choosing a candle

Catholic prayer candles typically feature an image of a saint or other religious figure, such as Christ, Mother Mary, or the Virgin Mary. The saint depicted on the candle is usually associated with a particular power or characteristic, and candles are often chosen for specific intentions or requests. For example, a candle with an image of St. Lazarus, the patron saint of diseases, may be chosen by someone praying for healing.

Using candles in prayer

Catholic prayer candles are used to guide and focus thoughts and intentions during prayer. They are often lit during communal prayers, such as group settings or Mass, where the group recites a prayer together, focusing on their shared intentions as the candle burns.

Other uses

Outside of the Catholic Church, Catholic saint candles are also used in Santeria, a syncretic religion that combines elements of traditional Yoruba religion and Catholicism. In this context, the candles are used as offerings to the orishas, or deities, with each orisha associated with a particular Catholic saint.

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Catholic candle care and safety

Candles have long been used in the Catholic Church, with their origins going back centuries. The symbolism of light is deeply rooted in religious practice, representing Christ, who is referred to as the "light of the world". In the Catholic tradition, candles also signify Christ's victory over darkness and sin.

  • Storage: Store your candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This will help prevent melting or warping and ensure the candle's integrity when burned.
  • Wick Maintenance: Before lighting your Catholic candle, ensure the wick is trimmed to about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). This will encourage a clean, steady flame and prevent excessive smoking or sooting. Trim the wick again if it becomes too long while burning.
  • Burning Instructions: Always burn your Catholic candle within sight and on a heat-resistant surface to avoid fire hazards. Keep candles away from flammable objects, drafts, and any ventilation sources. Extinguish the flame if it becomes too high or smokes excessively.
  • Safety Precautions: Never leave a burning candle unattended. Keep candles out of reach of children and pets. Always use a fire-safe candleholder and ensure that the candle is placed on a stable, level surface.
  • Blessing Considerations: If you intend to have your candle blessed, note that the blessing is intended for the individual who brings the candle to mass. Blessed candles are not meant to be sold, and their blessings become invalid if they are.
  • Disposal: Allow your Catholic candle to burn all the way down, if possible. If you need to dispose of it before it is finished, snuff out the flame instead of blowing it out to avoid hot wax splatters. You can also use a spoon to extinguish the flame gently.

By following these care and safety guidelines, you can safely enjoy your Catholic candles while respecting the symbolic and spiritual significance they hold within the Catholic faith.

Frequently asked questions

You can buy Catholic candles from several online retailers, including CORDA, Live Your Faith Catholic, T. H. Stemper Co., and Sisters of Carmel.

Catholic candles are available in various sizes, styles, and materials. Common types include altar candles, devotional candles, prayer candles, votive candles, and unity candles.

Catholic candles are typically made from beeswax, coconut soy wax, or a blend of coconut wax. Some candles may also be made from paraffin or other types of wax.

The cost of Catholic candles can vary depending on the retailer and the type of candle. Some retailers offer discounts when purchasing large quantities.

Shipping times can vary depending on the retailer and your location. Some retailers may offer expedited shipping options for an additional fee. It's best to check with the specific retailer for accurate shipping information.

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