04/07/2026
Here is the meaning of each symbol of the Paschal Candle: 🕯️
Since the early centuries of Christianity, the Paschal Candle has been one of the most expressive symbols of the Easter Vigil and the entire Easter Season. On the night of Holy Saturday, the priests celebrating the Vigil Mass light it as a symbol of the Risen Christ.
Light: Represents the risen Christ, who is the “true light that enlightens everyone who comes into the world” and who dispels the darkness caused by sin and its consequences.
Flame or Fire: The gesture of the priest sharing the flame of the Paschal Candle with the faithful at the Easter Vigil symbolizes the faith that we all receive and share.
Cross: Always the central symbol. It represents the path we must take to reach the Father, as Christ taught us.
Grains: There are five grains of incense, usually red in color, embedded in the candle representing the five wounds of Jesus: the three nails that pierced his hands and feet, the spear thrust into his right side, and the thorns on his head.
Alpha and Omega: The letters A (alpha) and Ω (omega), the first and last of the Greek alphabet, indicate that Christ’s Passover, the beginning and end of time and eternity, is an occasion to receive that ever-new strength that comes from God, in the specific year we are living.
Year: The current year symbolizes God in the present, as the Master and Lord of all eternity.
Lamb: Christ is represented by the figure of a lamb, a symbol of meekness. God rules the universe, but does so with mercy. That is why His justice is truly capable of saving. His power lies in love.
