What Is a Paschal Candle and When Is It Lit?
Paschal season is the 50-day period between Easter Sunday and Pentecost Sunday. The blessing of the paschal, or Easter candle, is an ancient tradition, according to the Catholic Encyclopedia. It is observed in Roman Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, and other Protestant churches.
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Description
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The large paschal candle is the most important of church candles, according to the Candle Carving Site, which is dedicated to the liturgical art of paschal candle carving. It is affixed with a cross, the symbol of Christ; the Greek letters "alpha" and "omega," which signify the beginning and end of all things; and the current year, indicating God's presence in the here and now.
Symbolism
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The paschal candle symbolizes the fire that is the source of all other lights, and the presence of Christ in the midst of a congregation.
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When It Is Lighted
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A paschal candle is carried in a procession into the darkened sanctuary at the Easter Vigil service on Easter Eve. When the candle is lit, it represents Christ's triumph over darkness and death.
When It Is Used
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The candle stands near the altar for the Eastertide season and is lit for every service until the Sunday of Pentecost, or in some church traditions until Ascension Day, according to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
Other Occasions for Lighting
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The paschal candle is lit for baptismal celebrations, when it is used to light tapers to be given to the newly baptized. It is also placed at the head of the casket during funeral services.
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