The Paschal Candle Flashcards
What is the Paschal candle?
•A large candle which is lit during Church services such as baptism and funerals and at Easter.
•It shows Jesus’ victory over death at the resurrection and when lit, the flame shows how he overcame the darkness of sin
What quote is there from the Bible about the paschal candle?
“I am the light of the world” reinforcing the idea that Jesus’ sacrifice brings a source of light and guidance to the Church
What does the cross symbolise on the paschal candles?
*The cross is a symbol of resurrection because the crucifixion made the resurrection possible.
*It reminds Christs death was not the end, but the beginning of eternal life giving Catholics hope of salvation through the resurrection of Jesus Christ
*e.g. the Bible says “I am the resurrection” indicating Jesus’ authority over life and death
What does the Alpha and Omega represent on the Paschal candle?
•The alpha and omega are the first and last letters in the Greek alphabet and symbolise Christ as the beginning of all things and the end of all things
•remind Catholic’s Of God’s timeless existence enforcing the idea this he is beyond the limitations of death giving Catholics’ hope of eternal life after death through the gift of salvation through the resurrection
•e.g.” I am the alpha and the omega” - clear declaration of Christs’ eternal nature
How does the paschal candle influence a Catholic’s life?
The Paschal Candle will be lit by Catholics at the religious funerals of their relatives to show that Jesus is a light in dark times. It will also remind them that their loved one soul is safe in the presence of God and Jesus.
