Candles can also represent a burnt offering to the Lord, a tradition as old as the Old Testament. “No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light” (Luke 11:33).
Most prayer candles are unscented, although you may burn a frankincense or myrrh candle for Christmas, or an osmogenesia candle to honor a fallen saint. There’s nothing wrong with white prayer candles, but you might choose purple for Lent or Advent, gold for Easter, or red for feasts of martyrs. You can find a wide variety of Catholic prayer candles online. Your local parish or grocery store may sell candles as well.
You might offer a prayer like, “Dear Lord, please bless this candle so that I may honor your light. ” You can also read from the Bible if you need inspiration. “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house” (Matthew 5:14-15)
Many people light prayer candles of Saint Gertrude or Saint Joseph in front of a photo of a deceased love one to pray for their soul. You might set the candle in front of an item of significance, like the clothing of a loved one, or a beloved family heirloom. You can create a small decorative altar for your candles if you want to light more than one of them. You might use rose petals, rosaries, and a crucifix to help you feel closer to God.
Many Catholics like to pray at 3 pm, which is considered the hour of Divine Mercy (the hour when Jesus died) based on the revelations of Saint Faustina. [6] X Research source If possible, begin praying the moment you light the candle.
You can get onto your knees, sit quietly, or stand in front of the candle. Whatever helps you feel closer to the Lord. Many Catholics like to set a specific intention for each individual candle that they light. For example, you might light one candle to pray for yourself, one candle to pray for your nephew, and a third candle to pray for your country’s well-being. Instead of praying, many people like to meditate in front of prayer candles. This is a phenomenal way to center your soul and connect with God while you practice mindfulness.
Don’t leave the candle unattended. If you’re going to leave, extinguish the candle.
There technically isn’t law or rule about throwing blessed items out, but it’s best to bury or burn blessed items as a sign of respect.
Use the flame from one candle to light the other candles. This represents God’s light spreading from person to person.
You can light a candle online with the non-profit organization Gratefulness. Remember, using prayer candles is a deeply symbolic practice. You do not need the candle to be right in front of you to take something meaningful from the experience.
