Jessie Taylor
The unity candle ceremony is a relatively new custom in wedding ceremonies that is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible or any apostolic writings. The ceremony involves the lighting of a unity candle, symbolizing the union of two people in marriage. While the origins of this tradition are unclear, it first gained popularity in the second half of the 20th century, particularly in American Protestant weddings. Today, the unity candle ceremony is a widespread practice in Christian weddings, although it is prohibited in some churches as it is not considered a part of the apostolic tradition.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of candles | 3 |
| What the candles represent | Bride, groom, and their covenant marriage |
| Who lights the candles | Mothers of the bride and groom, or another member of the wedding party |
| When the candles are lit | After the exchange of vows and rings |
| Blowing out the candles | Couples may blow out their individual candles after lighting the unity candle to symbolise the end of their separate lives |
| Candle type | Simplistic taper candles or traditional wedding candle |
| Timing | Lighting the unity candle usually takes 2 to 3 minutes |
| Alternatives | Sand, water, a cord of three strands, and unity cross ceremonies |
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What You'll Learn
Unity candle ceremony origins
The unity candle ceremony is a custom in wedding ceremonies symbolizing the joining of two individuals into the marriage bond. The ceremony involves lighting a "unity candle" from two smaller candles, each representing the bride and groom. This ritual is often performed by couples with varying religions and beliefs, and is seen as a modern tradition holding symbolic meaning rather than religious affiliation.
The unity candle ceremony is a relatively new custom, with no mention in the Bible or any apostolic writings. It first became popular in the second half of the 20th century, particularly in American Protestant weddings. The exact origins of this tradition are unclear, but its use in a 1981 episode of the soap opera "General Hospital" is believed to have popularized the practice. Dr. Michael Portelli is credited with the idea of a "Marriage Candle" and used it in his own wedding in the 1980s.
The ceremony typically involves three candles: two smaller candles representing the bride and groom and a larger "unity candle" in the middle. The mothers of the couple light the two outside candles at the start of the ceremony to symbolize each individual family. After exchanging vows, the bride and groom take their lit candles and together light the middle pillar candle, symbolizing the joining of their two lives into one. Some couples choose to blow out the bride's and groom's candles after the unity candle is lit, signifying their interdependence.
While the unity candle ceremony has become widespread, it is not a part of traditional Catholic or Anglican wedding ceremonies. It is considered a recent invention and is prohibited in some churches as it is not explicitly part of the churches' apostolic tradition. Couples are advised to consult with their pastor before including this ceremony in their wedding service.
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Bible verses recited
The unity candle ceremony is a relatively new custom in wedding ceremonies, with no record of it in the Bible or any apostolic writings. It first became popular in the second half of the 20th century in American Protestant weddings. The origins are unclear, but it may have been popularized by a 1981 episode of the soap opera "General Hospital".
Despite its lack of biblical origins, many couples choose to incorporate Bible verses into their unity candle ceremonies. One popular verse is Genesis 2:24, which says, "Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh." This verse is often recited as the couple lights the unity candle, symbolizing the leaving and cleaving of the bride and groom from their families and the beginning of their new life together as a married couple.
Another verse that is often recited during the unity candle ceremony is Ruth 1:16, which says, "Entreat me not to leave you, or to return from following you: Where you go I will go; Where you lodge I will lodge; Your people will be my people, and your God my God." This verse reflects the commitment and unity that the couple is entering into through their marriage.
In addition to these specific verses, some ministers or wedding officiants may choose to incorporate other Bible verses or themes related to love, marriage, or unity into the ceremony. For example, St. Paul's letter to the Ephesians 5:22-33 speaks to the nature of Christian marriage, with verses such as "Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord" and "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her."
While the unity candle ceremony is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, couples may still find it to be a meaningful way to symbolize the union of their two lives and the beginning of their married life together. It is important to note, however, that the ceremony is not permitted in all Christian denominations due to its recent invention and lack of traditional apostolic roots.
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Symbolism of the candles
The unity candle ceremony is a relatively new custom in wedding ceremonies, with unclear origins. It is not mentioned in the Bible or any apostolic writings, and it is not part of the Catholic Wedding Ceremony or Anglican wedding ceremonies. However, it has become a widespread tradition in Christian weddings, symbolizing the union of two individuals into the marriage bond.
The unity candle ceremony typically involves three candles: two smaller taper candles and one larger "unity" candle. The smaller candles represent the bride and groom as individuals before their union in marriage. These candles are usually lit by the mothers of the bride and groom or another member of the wedding party at the start of the ceremony. The large unity candle remains unlit until the unity candle ceremony.
During the ceremony, the bride and groom take their individual candles and together light the center unity candle, symbolizing the joining of their two lives into one. This act represents the couple coming together as one, as mentioned in Genesis 2:24: "Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh."
Some couples choose to blow out the individual candles after lighting the unity candle, symbolizing the end of their separate lives and the fact that they will now exist as one. This is also a reminder that they will never be fully separated from each other again.
The unity candle ceremony adds a deeply meaningful illustration to the wedding ceremony, allowing the couple to visually represent the union of their lives and the creation of a new family.
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Timing of the ceremony
The unity candle ceremony is a relatively new custom in wedding ceremonies, with no mention of it in the Bible or any apostolic writings. It is not part of the Catholic Wedding Ceremony or Anglican wedding ceremonies. However, it is a widespread practice and can be a meaningful addition to a Christian wedding ceremony.
The unity candle ceremony usually takes place after the exchange of vows and rings. However, some couples prefer to light the candle before the vows, especially when combined with a handfasting ceremony to prevent the cord or ribbon from catching fire. The ceremony typically adds only 2 to 3 minutes to the wedding ceremony.
To save time, it is recommended to set up a table near the wedding altar before the ceremony begins, arranging the candles and placing a lighter or matches nearby. Some couples choose to light the smaller candles before the wedding ceremony, so they are ready to light the unity candle.
The unity candle ceremony can be challenging for outdoor weddings, as wind can easily blow out the candles. In such cases, alternatives like sand, water, a cord of three strands, or a unity cross can be considered.
After lighting the unity candle, there are two common options for the couple to consider. The first option is to blow out their individual candles, symbolizing the end of their separate lives and their union as one. The second option is to leave the individual candles lit, representing that they exist as individuals within their marriage. The unity candle can remain lit until the wedding is complete and the couple has made their exit, after which the wedding officiant or attendant can blow it out and keep it as a keepsake.
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Alternatives to unity candles
The unity candle ceremony is a relatively new custom in wedding ceremonies, with no mention of it in the Bible or any apostolic writings. The tradition, which first became popular in the second half of the 20th century, involves lighting a "unity candle" to symbolize two people joining in marriage. While some couples opt to include this ceremony in their weddings, others might prefer alternatives. Here are some options:
Sand Ceremony
One alternative is the sand ceremony, where two glasses of wine or sand are poured into one container, symbolizing the blending of two individuals into one in marriage. While some might find this idea appealing, others might associate it with the beach and prefer an alternative that better suits their wedding theme.
Wine Box or Time Capsule
Another option is the wine box or time capsule idea. This involves placing a bottle of wine and letters, family mementos, copies of vows, or other meaningful items into a box. The box is then locked or sealed during the ceremony and can be opened on a predetermined anniversary or later in life. This alternative offers a tangible keepsake to display in the home and enjoy for years to come.
Bonfire
For outdoor weddings, starting a bonfire can be a unique alternative to the unity candle. Creating a designated fire pit before the ceremony symbolizes the spark of love between the couple. This idea can also be a perfect fit for couples who want to serve s'mores at their wedding reception.
Planting a Tree
Planting a tree during the wedding ceremony is another way to symbolize the growth and strength of the couple's love. This alternative offers a lasting reminder of their unity, as they can watch the tree grow and flourish together.
Unity Painting
For a creative twist, couples can opt for a unity painting instead of candles or sand. This involves both partners contributing to a painting during the ceremony, blending their individual styles and colours into one unified artwork. This alternative allows for a unique and personalized keepsake to display in their home.
These alternatives offer unique and meaningful ways to symbolize the unity and love between the couple without using the traditional unity candle ceremony. Couples can choose the option that best suits their personalities, wedding themes, and preferences, creating a memorable experience for themselves and their guests.
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Frequently asked questions
The unity candle ceremony is a wedding ritual where the bride and groom light a unity candle, symbolizing their union and the joining of two individuals into the marriage bond.
The unity candle ceremony is not mentioned in the Bible or any apostolic writings. It is a relatively new custom that first became popular in the second half of the 20th century in American Protestant weddings.
Typically, three candles are used: two taper candles and a larger pillar candle. The taper candles are lit by the mothers of the bride and groom or another member of the wedding party. After exchanging vows, the couple moves towards the candles and uses the taper candles to light the pillar candle together, symbolizing their union.
It is important to check with the pastor or officiant before including the unity candle ceremony, as it is not part of the traditional Catholic or Anglican wedding ceremonies and may not be allowed in some parishes. Additionally, consider the timing of the ceremony, whether to blow out the candles, and the type of candles and decorations used.
