Paschal Candle
The Paschal Candle is the large white candle, and is also sometimes called the Christ Candle. The term “Paschal” originates from the Greek and Hebrew for “Passover.” The Passover has its beginnings in Exodus 12 when the Israelites were slaves in Egypt. The Israelites were instructed to sacrifice an unblemished male lamb. Blood from the lamb was to be placed on their doorposts, and for those who followed these instructions, the tenth and final plague striking down all the firstborns would pass over their home and they would be spared. The lamb was also to be roasted and, along with unleavened bread, provided their final meal before leaving Egypt. As a reminder of this, the Israelites annually celebrated the Passover. After the resurrection of Jesus, Paul says in 1 Corinthians 5, “Christ our Passover has been sacrificed.”
The Paschal Candle is normally used during the Easter season (through Pentecost), and is also lit for special occasions such as baptisms and funerals. The candle reminds us of Jesus words from John 8, “I am the Light of the world; whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the Light of life.” The light of the Paschal Candle specifically celebrates the resurrection of Jesus and reminds us of Christ’s continued presence, just as He promised in Matthew 28:20, “Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”