What Is the Meaning of Catholic Votive Candles?

In the Catholic Church, votive candles, also known as vigil lights, are burned to demonstrate special devotion or to make a specific appeal. According to the New Advent and Catholic encyclopedia, they symbolize prayer and sacrifice.

Features

Votive candles vary in size, shape and color. Sizes range from short tea-light candles to long taper candles. They are normally encased in glass containers, which may be colored.

Practice

A church member burns a votive candle when praying for a specific circumstance or outcome, such as the safe return or improved health of a loved one.

Placement

Votive candle rack

Votive candles sit on stands or racks, which often face a shrine, such as a statue of Jesus or the Virgin Mary.

Pagan Origin

According to the New Advent and Catholic encyclopedia, the practice of burning candles as offerings to incur divine favor originated in early pagan and cult ceremonies.

Church Use

The Catholic Church adopted the practice because it viewed candle burning as a natural religious expression, not something tied to a specific form of idolatry.

References

• Newadvent.org
• Cptryon.org

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish