Paschal Candles
Discover the Beauty and Symbolism of Our Paschal Candle Collection
The Paschal candle holds deep significance in the Paschal Triduum, serving as a powerful symbol of Christ as the Light of the world. First lit during the Easter Vigil, it stands as a reminder of Christ’s resurrection and the triumph of light over darkness. Traditionally made with a high percentage of beeswax, these Easter candles are often adorned with Christian symbols and may include incense. Each element carries deep meaning—the beeswax represents Christ’s purity, the incense recalls the spices used in His burial, and the markings reflect the wounds on His hands, feet, and side.
A variety of candles for Easter Vigil are available, each designed to reflect the beauty and tradition of this sacred season. The Eximious collection features top-tier, made-to-order Paschal candles with intricate craftsmanship, offering detailed designs that stand out as a centerpiece in Easter liturgy. The SculptWax collection showcases hand-cast, color-infused appliqués, creating a visually striking design that brings depth and dimension to the candle’s symbolism.
For those who prefer a more traditional approach, the Classic collection presents Paschal candles with simple yet elegant patterns, enriched by rich, vibrant colors that maintain the timeless beauty of the Easter celebration. Whether highly ornate or beautifully understated, each Paschal candle serves as a meaningful focal point in the sacred liturgy of Easter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paschal Candles
Paschal Candles hold deep significance in Christian tradition, symbolizing the light of Christ and the renewal of faith. Used during the Easter Vigil and throughout the liturgical year, these sacred candles play a central role in worship. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions about Paschal Candles, including when they are lit, how long they stay illuminated, and their importance in Christian ceremonies.
What Are Paschal Candles?
Paschal Candles are large, beeswax candles used in Christian liturgical celebrations, especially during Easter. Each candle is adorned with symbols, including the cross and the current year, signifying Christ as the beginning and the end. A Paschal Candle represents the resurrection of Christ and the light of faith. It is primarily lit during the Easter Vigil Mass and remains an important symbol throughout the liturgical year. Many churches invest in high-quality beeswax Paschal Candles for their purity, longevity, and traditional significance.
When to Light the Paschal Candle?
The Paschal Candle is lit during the Easter Vigil and continues to be used throughout the Easter season, which lasts 50 days until Pentecost Sunday. It is also lit during significant ceremonies such as baptisms and funerals, symbolizing Christ’s presence and the promise of eternal life.
How Long Does the Paschal Candle Stay Lit?
The Paschal Candle is lit during the Easter Vigil and remains illuminated for the entire Easter season, which lasts 50 days until Pentecost Sunday. Additionally, it is lit for baptisms and funerals throughout the year, making it a central symbol of faith and renewal in Christian worship.
When Is the Paschal Candle Removed?
In many churches, the Paschal Candle remains lit from Easter Sunday until Pentecost. After Pentecost Sunday, the candle is often moved to the baptismal font, where it continues to be used for baptism ceremonies throughout the year. Some traditions may remove the candle from the sanctuary entirely after Pentecost, but this varies by denomination.
What Are Complementing Altar Candles?
Many churches pair the Paschal Candle with altar candles to create a unified and reverent setting for worship. The combination helps maintain the solemnity of the liturgy while enhancing the visual focus on the altar.