Maddie James
A white candle is an essential part of the Sacrament of Baptism. It is lit from the Pascal Candle and symbolises the light of Christ. The candle can be personalised with decorations, ribbons, and charms, and can be kept as a precious keepsake for the baptised person. The candle can be lit again on significant days, such as their feast day, or when they make other sacraments.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Symbol of a new life given by Christ, the "Light of the World" |
| Symbol of hope and light of Christ | |
| Symbol of putting on the new life of Christ | |
| Symbol of celebration | |
| Symbol of receiving everything from God | |
| Symbol of belonging to Christ | |
| Use | Lit during the ceremony |
| Lit on the anniversary of baptism | |
| Lit on solemn occasions in later life: first holy communion, wedding day, receiving sacraments in serious illness, at the hour of death | |
| Lit during prayers | |
| Burned at the head of the coffin during the wake until consumed | |
| Used as a keepsake | |
| Can be decorated with names, dates, symbols, etc. | |
| Can be dressed in a white garment |
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What You'll Learn
The candle is a symbol of new life and light from Christ
The candle is lit from the Easter Candle, and the newly baptised person is blessed to "shine with the light of faith and good works". The candle can be lit on the anniversary of the baptism, on the child's feast day, or during prayer. It can be used on solemn occasions in later life, such as the day of first holy Communion, the wedding day, or at the hour of death.
Families often provide a white candle for the ceremony, which can be decorated with the child's name, the date of the baptism, and other symbols. The candle can be a precious keepsake for the child and their family, a reminder of the light of Christ that now lives within them.
The candle can also be lit on the baptismal anniversary, with the family gathering to pray and give thanks for the grace of the sacrament. The candle is a symbol of the new life that has been received, and the flame represents the light of Christ, shining brightly in the world. The leftover candle stub can be burned to its end on the day of death, symbolising a life that belongs to Christ.
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It is lit by the priest or godfather during the ceremony
The baptismal candle is an essential part of the Sacrament of Baptism and is lit during the ceremony by either the priest or the godfather. The candle is lit from the big Pascal Candle, also known as the Easter Candle, and symbolises hope and the Light of the World that the newly baptised will live by. The priest may say the following words to the child: "Receive this lighted candle, and keep your baptism above reproach. Keep the commandments of God, so that when the Lord comes to His marriage feast, you may meet Him in the halls of heaven with all His saints, and may live with Him forever."
The candle can be decorated and personalised with names, dates, symbols, and other decorations. It can become a precious keepsake for the baptised person and their family, and can be lit on special occasions such as their feast day, first holy communion, wedding day, or during serious illness. It is also customary to light the candle on the anniversary of the baptism, when the person in joyful prayer thanks God for the grace of the sacrament and renews their baptismal vows.
The candle can be burned to its end on the day of the baptised person's death, symbolising a life that belongs to Christ. What remains of the candle can be placed at the head of the coffin during the wake and kept burning until it is consumed.
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The candle can be lit on the anniversary of the baptism
The anniversary of baptism is often marked by attending Mass, receiving Communion, and performing other acts of devotion. The candle of baptism can be lit on this day, serving as a precious keepsake and a reminder of the light of Christ. This tradition is observed by many Catholic populations and is a way to commemorate the occasion and renew one's faith.
The baptismal candle is typically lit from the light of the Easter Candle during the ceremony, symbolising the reception of the "Light of the World." This light is entrusted to the baptised person and their godparents or sponsors, who are reminded to keep it burning brightly. By lighting the baptismal candle on the anniversary, one symbolically reaffirms their commitment to walk as a child of the light.
In addition to the anniversary, the candle can be lit on other solemn occasions in later life, such as the day of First Holy Communion, Wedding Day, during serious illness, and especially at the hour of death. The unburnt portion of the candle is placed at the head of the coffin during the wake and burned until fully consumed.
The candle serves as a reminder of one's baptismal vows and the light of Christ that illuminates their new life. Lighting it on the anniversary of baptism is a way to honour this sacred commitment and recall the day one became a child of God.
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It can be used on other solemn occasions, such as a wedding day
The baptismal candle is a symbol of new life and hope, representing the "Light of the World" given by Christ. It is lit during the ceremony and often decorated with names, dates, and symbols. The candle is a precious keepsake that can be lit on the baptised person's feast day or other sacramental celebrations.
While some people choose to burn their candle during prayer, others opt to keep it as a memento. It is considered auspicious to keep the candle and use it during solemn occasions in later life, such as one's wedding day. The candle can be lit during the wedding ceremony, symbolising the light of Christ that the individual received during their baptism.
In some traditions, the candle is also lit on the anniversary of the baptism, serving as a reminder of the vows taken and the commitment to a life of faith. This practice reinforces the significance of the baptismal candle as a symbol of enduring light and faith.
The candle can also be lit during other important life events, such as receiving sacraments in serious illness. It serves as a connection to one's baptism and the blessings received during that sacred ceremony. By lighting the candle during significant moments in life, individuals can recall the promises made during baptism and seek strength and guidance.
Additionally, the baptismal candle can be placed at the head of the coffin during the wake and kept burning until it is entirely consumed. This tradition symbolises the end of a life that belonged to Christ, illuminated by His light, joy, beauty, and grace. The burning of the candle during this solemn occasion is a powerful reminder of the cycle of life and the eternal nature of the soul.
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The candle stub can be burned to its end on the day of death
The baptismal candle is an essential part of the Sacrament of Baptism. It is lit from the big Pascal Candle, symbolising hope and the light of Christ that the newly baptised now live by. The candle is often lit on the anniversary of the baptism, and on other significant occasions in later life, such as the day of first holy Communion, Wedding day, and at the hour of death.
The candle stub can be placed at the head of the coffin during the wake and kept burning until it is entirely consumed. This custom signifies the eternal light that the baptised person now carries with them into the afterlife. It is a powerful way to honour the memory of the deceased and their commitment to their faith.
Additionally, the candle stub can be burned during prayers for the deceased, serving as a reminder of their baptismal vows and their new life in Christ. The warm glow of the candle can provide comfort and solace to those mourning, symbolising the light of Christ that continues to shine even in the midst of grief and loss.
For those who wish to keep the candle as a memento, it can be displayed in a prayer corner or icon corner. Over time, as the candle accumulates charcoal dust, incense dust, or cat dander, it may be lit and burned during personal moments of reflection and devotion.
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Frequently asked questions
A white candle is an essential part of the Sacrament of Baptism. It is lit from the big Pascal Candle and is a symbol of hope and the light of Christ.
The candle can become a precious keepsake for the baptised person and can be lit on their feast day or when they make other sacraments.
Yes, you can personalise a baptismal candle by adding names, dates, and godparents. You can use silk ribbons, lace, pear strings, and metallic elements like crosses or doves. You can also print designs on tracing paper and pin them to the candle.
