Sacraments
What Is a Baptismal Candle?
Short answer
A baptismal candle is a small candle given at baptism to symbolize the light of Christ and the new life God gives. It is often lit from the church’s Paschal candle, reminding the baptized person and family to “walk as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8).
A baptismal candle is a simple but meaningful symbol used in many Christian baptism services. Usually it is a white candle, sometimes decorated with a cross, the child’s name, the baptism date, or Christian symbols like a dove or shell. In many churches, it is lit from a larger candle called the Paschal candle, which represents the risen Christ.
Not every Christian tradition uses baptismal candles, and that is okay. Baptism itself is the sacrament or ordinance; the candle is a sign that helps families remember what baptism means: belonging to Christ, receiving God’s grace, and being called to live in his light.
What Does a Baptismal Candle Symbolize?
The baptismal candle points to Jesus, who said, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12). When a newly baptized person receives a candle, the church is saying, in a visible way, that this person is being welcomed into the life of Christ.
It also connects to Jesus’ words to his followers: “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14). For children, this can be explained very simply: Jesus gives us his light so we can shine with love, truth, kindness, and faith.
In baptism, Christians remember that we are united with Jesus’ death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4) and clothed with Christ (Galatians 3:27). The candle does not “do” the baptism; rather, it helps us see and remember the promise and calling of baptism.
Why Is It Lit From the Paschal Candle?
In Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, Lutheran, and some other liturgical churches, the baptismal candle is often lit from the Paschal candle. The Paschal candle is usually blessed at Easter and represents the risen Jesus, whose light overcomes sin and death.
Lighting the smaller candle from the larger one is a beautiful picture: the light of Christ is not diminished when it is shared. One flame can light another, and another, and another. This helps children understand that faith is received, shared, and lived in community.
Some Protestant churches may not use a Paschal candle or baptismal candle, especially if their worship style is simpler. Still, many churches teach the same biblical truth: baptism points to new life in Christ and the call to follow him.
When Do Families Use the Baptismal Candle?
The most important moment is during the baptism service itself. A priest, pastor, deacon, godparent, sponsor, or parent may hold the candle, depending on the church’s custom. Often the congregation prays for the child or newly baptized person as the candle is presented.
Afterward, many families keep the candle as a keepsake. Some light it again on the anniversary of the baptism, during family prayer, or when talking with a child about their faith story. If you do this, always supervise carefully and use a safe holder.
You might say something like: “This candle reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world, and at your baptism we celebrated that you belong to him.” That kind of simple explanation is often more meaningful to a child than a long speech.
How Can Parents Explain It to Kids?
For young children, keep it concrete:
- “The candle reminds us of Jesus’ light.”
- “At baptism, we celebrated that God loves you and calls you his own.”
- “We ask Jesus to help us shine with kindness, courage, and love.”
For older kids, you can connect the candle to Scripture. Read John 8:12 or Matthew 5:14-16 together. Ask: “What are some ways our family can shine Jesus’ light this week?” Answers might include forgiving a sibling, welcoming a lonely classmate, telling the truth, or praying for someone who is hurting.
If your child asks, “Does the candle have magic power?” the answer is no. Christians do not treat the candle as magic. It is a sign, like a wedding ring is a sign of marriage. It points to something real and important, but the object itself is not the source of grace. God is.
Practical Tips for Keeping a Baptismal Candle
If your family has a baptismal candle, store it in a cool, dry place so it does not bend or melt. You may want to place it in a labeled box with the baptism certificate, photos, cards, or notes from godparents or sponsors.
Consider creating a baptism anniversary tradition. Light the candle at dinner, say a short prayer, and tell your child one thing you are thankful for in their life. You could pray: “Lord Jesus, thank you for your light. Help us follow you and share your love. Amen.”
If you do not have a candle from the baptism, you can still remember the day. Look at photos, read the baptism certificate, or light an ordinary candle during prayer. The heart of the practice is not the special candle itself, but remembering God’s love and the call to live as a follower of Jesus.
More questions parents ask
- Is a baptismal candle required for baptism?
- In many churches it is part of the baptism liturgy, but it is not the center of baptism. The water, the words, and God’s promise are what matter most; the candle is a meaningful symbol.
- Who holds the baptismal candle?
- Customs vary by church. A parent, godparent, sponsor, priest, pastor, or deacon may hold it during or after it is lit.
- Can we relight a baptismal candle at home?
- Yes, many families relight it on the baptism anniversary or during prayer. Use normal candle safety, keep it away from children, and never leave it unattended.
- What does the baptismal candle teach children?
- It teaches that Jesus is the light of the world and that baptized Christians are called to live in his light. Matthew 5:16 is a helpful verse for children: let your light shine so others may glorify God.
- Do all Christians use baptismal candles?
- No. They are common in Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, Lutheran, and some other traditions, but less common in many evangelical or free-church settings.