Paschal

The Paschal candle is also known as the Easter candle or the Christ candle. The term Paschal comes from the Hebrew word Pesach, which means Passover. The candle is typically large and white with varying degrees of ornamentation on it. Each year during the holiday season, a new candle is blessed and lit. It is then used throughout the year during holidays and special events such as baptisms and funerals.

Paschal candles are steeped in symbolism. The flame is thought to symbolize risen Christ as it brings light to the world. The height and color of the candle signifies the Divine pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night that the Israelites used to guide them during their Exodus from slavery in Egypt.

Matthew F. Sheehan offers several styles of Paschal candles to choose from. While all of the candles are tall and white, the designs and symbols printed on them varies. Each symbol and design has a different meaning. Choose a candle with a design that has a special meaning to your church or opt for a new symbol and design each year to correspond with a particular lesson or theme that you wish to focus on.