Why are there votive candles in church?

From time to time at St. Andrew’s, you will see people head to the rear of the church to light a small candle on the votive rack. The votive rack contains a few rows of votive candles. The word votive comes from the Latin votum, meaning promise, dedication or simply “prayer.” It reinforces the idea that the candles represent our prayers before God.

As humans, we are body and soul, and our prayers often need to be expressed in a physical, tangible way. This helps our soul be at rest and is a way to deepen our spirituality. Like incense, the light of the candles is a physical reminder that points our souls to God.

We light them not because we believe our prayers will be better heard by God, but because we need something visual to connect our body and soul.

Lighting a votive candle is a symbolic act of offering a prayer to God. It represents the worshipper's desire for their prayers to be remembered and acknowledged. The flickering flame signifies the light of faith and the presence of God. The burning candle symbolizes that the prayer continues even after the worshipper leaves the church. It serves as a reminder that their intentions remain before God, much like a "burnt offering" in biblical tradition.

If you wish to light a candle, go to the votive rack, before or after the service, where you will find matches or a lighter. Light the candle and pause for a few moments to state your intention(s) in the form of a prayer to God. There is a small bowl located on the lower shelf, where you find matches to leave a small offering. Your offering helps the Altar Guild keep a ready supply of candles.

Faithfully,

Father Michael +