The Paschal Candle

Next to the font stands the Paschal Candle. At the Easter Vigil the Paschal Candle is lit in the sanctuary as an expression of the Resurrection of Our Lord. Throughout the Easter Season the candle remains there and is lit for all for all celebrations of the Eucharist. Following the Easter Season the candle is placed next to the font and is lit at funeral masses during which water drawn from the font is used to bless the deceased. In this manner the church expresses our faith in the resurrection through the regenerating waters of Baptism. The candle has five “nails” of incense impressed in the wax representing the wounds of Our Lord and the year of our salvation.