Paschal candle

Manila Cathedral Paschal Candle (003) 2024-04-07

Paschal candle is a large, white candle used in liturgies within Christianity, especially within the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Anglican Communion, among others. It is lit during the Easter Vigil on Easter Saturday night to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and is used throughout the Paschal season and during baptisms and funerals throughout the year, symbolizing the light of Christ coming into the world.

Origin and Symbolism

The tradition of the Paschal candle has its roots in early Christian practices. The word "Paschal" comes from "Pascha," the Greek and Latin word for Passover, which has been adopted into Christianity to refer to Easter. The candle itself symbolizes Jesus Christ as the "Light of the World" (John 8:12). The act of lighting the candle in a darkened church represents the light of Christ's resurrection dispelling the darkness of sin and death.

Design and Features

The Paschal candle is typically adorned with specific Christian symbols. These include the Cross, which is central to its design, representing the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. The Greek letters alpha (Α) and omega (Ω) flank the cross, symbolizing Christ's statement in the Book of Revelation that He is "the beginning and the end" (Revelation 22:13). The current year is also inscribed on the candle, denoting the ongoing presence of Christ in the here and now. Additionally, five grains of incense are often embedded in the candle in the form of a cross, representing the five wounds of Christ.

Usage

The Paschal candle is first lit during the Easter Vigil, a service that begins in darkness before the stroke of midnight on Holy Saturday, leading into Easter Sunday. The candle is typically blessed by the presiding priest or bishop, and once lit, it is processed into the dark church, with the clergy and congregation following it. The light from the Paschal candle is then shared with smaller candles held by the congregation, gradually illuminating the church.

Throughout the Easter season, which lasts for fifty days until Pentecost, the Paschal candle stands prominently near the altar or in the sanctuary, lit during all liturgical services. After Pentecost, it is moved to a place near the baptismal font and is lit during baptisms, where it symbolizes the baptized individual's reception of the light of Christ. It is also used during funeral services to signify the hope of resurrection in Christ.

Variations Across Traditions

While the use of the Paschal candle is widespread in Western Christianity, its usage and symbolism can vary slightly among different denominations and rites. In the Eastern Orthodox tradition, for example, the Paschal candle is lit at the midnight service of Pascha (Easter) and is used in the procession around the church. It also plays a significant role in the service of the First Hour on the day of Pascha.

Conclusion

The Paschal candle is a powerful symbol in Christian liturgy, embodying the light of Christ's resurrection and the hope of eternal life. Its presence in the church throughout the year serves as a continuous reminder of the central mystery of the Christian faith: the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.