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Candles play a major role in our Liturgical Rite. We use candles at Easter, candles at Christmas, candles at Theophany, candles at baptism, candles at weddings, candles on the Altar table, candles before icons, candles during processions, candles everywhere. So why do we use candles and what is their significance? Candles, lamps, light and flames represent the visible presence of God as the Light of the World. To understand the meaning of candles in our worship, we must look to the Bible where God is so often described in terms of fire and light. Light was the first thing God created (Genesis 1:3). God appeared to Moses in the burning bush (Exodus 3:2). He appeared to the Israelites as a pillar of fire to guide them to the Promised Land (Exodus 13:21-22). The eternal flame of God's presence was to be lit in the Temple in Jerusalem at all times. Light also represents the direction and guidance of God: The light of God’s countenance is an expression of His blessing (Psalm 89:15). God's Word is a lamp to the feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105). The Lord is a lamp, turning darkness into light (2 Samuel 22). The Messiah was to be a light to the nations, bringing salvation to them (Isaiah 49:6 & Luke 2:32). The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? (Psalm 27:1). Jesus, too, is described in terms of light: Jesus called his followers the light of the world (Matthew 5:14). Jesus is the True Light that shines in the darkness and the darkness does not overcome it” (John 1:5) and Jesus Himself said, "I am the Light of the World” (John 8:12). The candle also stands for the Church of the living God, for in it, Christ enlightens the faithful through evangelization in His Church. For individual Christians, the candle’s flame represents the faith that makes us "Children of the Light.” A lighted candle gives off heat and its warmth and heat show us the "Fiery Tongues,” the descent of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, which "Do not consume, but enlighten.” In many churches, when the priest reads the Gospel, Lectors, Acolytes, Children of Mary or parishioners stand with lighted candles on either side. The lighted candles remind us of Christ’s Gospel—The Holy Bible, the Word of God which dispels the darkness of ignorance and sin. "The light shines in the darkness and darkness does not overcome it.” (John 1, 5) Candles also signify Christian self-sacrifice. As the burning taper consumes itself, so should the Christian burn up his or her energies in serving God and his neighbor. Candle stands which are usually found at the front of the church hold votive candles. These votive candles may be lit by the faithful to pray for themselves or for someone in need, such as health or comfort, to honour a saint or to commemorate a deceased loved one. The word "votive" means an offering or dedication in accordance with a vow. The candle is usually made of pure beeswax and so should our hearts be pure. The wick represents the soul of Christ, Our Lord, and the flame represents His Divinity—the fact that He is God. At the Presentation of Our Lord in the temple, St. Simeon held Jesus in his arms and proclaimed that "Jesus is the light that enlightens every person that comes into this world.” He said, "Now, O Lord, you may dismiss your servant in peace for my eyes have seen Your salvation - A revealing light to the Gentiles.” It has become a custom in many of our Churches to bless candles on the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord to remind us that Christ is the Light of the World. Blessing candles is done during the Matins Service or sometimes incorporated into the Divine Liturgy. Lighting candles:
Candles can also be used:
Every family should have a blessed candle at home so they may be a true inspiration to all of us. | |
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