The Paschal Candle

The Paschal Candle is used in Western Christian Tradition is blessed and lighted every year at our Easter Vigil Celebration.  The Paschal Candle burns throughout the 50 days of Easter and on special occasions during the Church Year, such as baptisms and funerals.  The flame of the Paschal Candle symbolizes the eternal presence of Christ, the Light of the World in the midst of His people.  The term "Paschal" comes from the Hebrew word Pesach, which means Passover, and relates to the Paschal mystery which is salvation once and for all through the Jesus' Paschal sacrifice.