The Significance of Lighting Candles in the Greek Orthodox Church
When an Orthodox Christian enters the narthex of the church, he/she makes the sign of the Cross, makes an offering for a candle, venerates all the icons, and lights the candle while saying a prayer. Candles are lit as an expression of our belief that Jesus Christ is the “Light of the world.” A candle may be lit for the health and well-being of someone or in memory of a departed loved one. In particular, the seven-day candles may be lit for the same reasons. Please remember the procedure for when one should enter during Divine Services. Godparents of newly baptized and/or chrismated Church members may come down to light candles when the Priest calls the faithful to receive the Holy Eucharist “With the fear of God, with faith and with love”, even though the Priest is facing the congregation.
Honouring the Memory of Our Beloved with Candle Lighting
May the light of this candle be a reminder of the love we hold in our hearts for our beloved. May it shine brightly, just as their memory lives on within us, and may our prayers reach their eternal soul.
In the Greek Orthodox tradition, lighting a candle is a powerful symbol of remembrance and a way to honor the memory of our loved ones who have passed away. It is a way to express our love and respect for them, as well as our hope that their soul will be in peace.
We invite you to light a virtual candle on our website as a reminder of your loved one’s memory, and to fill out the form below if you would like us to light a candle on your behalf.
Our community will pray for the soul of your beloved, and may the light of the candle shine brightly in their eternal rest.
“There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever.” – Revelation 22:5
FILL OUT THIS FORM
TO REQUEST TO LIGHT A CANDLE
