Votive Candles

At St. Anthony on the Lake Catholic Church, you'll find votive candles on the back wall near the statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph and in the Adoration Chapel. These candles are available for parishioners who wish to light one as part of their personal prayer. This is an opportunity for prayer, reflection, and devotion. Many people have experienced the beauty of lighting a candle in church, but have you ever wondered why Catholics do this?

A Tradition Rooted in Scripture

The practice of lighting votive candles has deep biblical roots. In the Old Testament, God's people offered burnt offerings as acts of worship and sacrifice. Animals, grain, oil, and other gifts were offered to God as a visible sign of devotion, thanksgiving, repentance, or petition. A burnt offering represented giving something of value completely to God.

Today's votive candles continue that tradition in a symbolic way. When we light a candle, we offer a small sacrifice and entrust our prayers to the Lord. The candle becomes a visible reminder of our prayer, our faith, and our desire to remain close to God.

A Symbol of Our Prayer

A burning candle represents our prayer. While the candle burns, it serves as a beautiful reminder that our prayers continue even after we leave the church. Of course, our prayers do not end when the candle burns out. God never forgets our prayers. The candle is primarily for our benefit, helping us remain mindful of God's presence and our ongoing relationship with Him. Sometimes we light a candle before a statue of Jesus, Mary, or one of the saints. When we ask for the intercession of Mary or the saints, we are asking them to pray with us and for us before God.

An Invitation to Prayer

The next time you visit church, consider lighting a votive candle. Whether you are offering prayers of thanksgiving, asking for healing, remembering a loved one, or simply spending a few quiet moments with the Lord, the light of the candle can be a meaningful expression of your faith.

May the light of Christ continue to guide each of us, filling our hearts with hope, peace, and the enduring flame of faith. If you choose to light a candle and would like to make a donation to help replenish our supply, you are welcome to place your offering in the box on the wall near the candle, or use the QR code on the box.