Dear Friends,
“The very first Easter taught us this: that life never ends and love never dies.” Kate McGahan
Over the past few months we have had more than our fair share of funerals. At each service, I find comfort in seeing the Paschal Candle lit and having the physical reminder that life is eternal with Christ. The Paschal Candle is often referred to as the “big candle” by the acolytes. That description is accurate in that it is very large and it represents a big promise.
The Paschal Candle symbolizes the risen Christ and is present during the service at funerals, baptisms and the Easter season. The term “Paschal” concerns Passover or Easter. We are not having an Easter Vigil this year, but if we were the candle would be lit at an open fire at the entrance and processed in while reciting the words “The light of Christ” with the response “Thanks be to God.” The candle stays in place and is burned at all services through Pentecost. (BCP pp.285- 287)
During baptisms the candle is lit to represent new life in Christ that we share in baptism. We then give the newly baptized person a smaller candle that is lit from the Paschal Candle to signify the light of Christ. Likewise, during funerals the candle is lit to symbolize resurrection.
The Paschal Candle at Manakin is particularly beautiful. I hope that when you see it during a service you will reflect on the big meaning within the symbol. I trust that you will find
comfort and peace in knowing that life never ends and love never dies.
Blessings,
Gini+