2007-04-26 06:38:32 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
I don't use candles for prayer.... it is an earthly thing and my prayers arent for the ears of people or things here on earth
2007-04-26 06:42:42 · answer #1 · answered by livinintheword † 6 · 6⤊ 1⤋
I don't often light candles in church when I pray for people. Just isn't my thing. But when I choose to do so, it is a way for me to act out my prayer as well as talk to God. I usually only light candles when praying for someone who is gravely ill or for the family of someone who has recently died. There is something a little more concrete about lighting a candle that makes me feel like I'm doing something. *shrug*
2007-04-26 13:53:04 · answer #2 · answered by Church Music Girl 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Nothing can come close to the deep and moving symbolism of a burning candle.
There are several types of religious candles and the combination of fire and light holds meaning for a variety of spiritual practices and religions. The melting wax and effervescent fragrance of a votive candle, for example, represents sacrifice or commitment is a timeless Christian symbol of sacrifice and commitment, while in Buddhist tradition, a candle's light represents absolute truth and purity. Likewise, the flames of candles used in Christian tradition also represent purity, as well as the presence of God.
Almost any style of unscented or scented candle can be used as a religious candle, though tapers, pillars and votives are the most commonly used. Unscented white taper candles are often used as altar pieces and smaller tapers are frequently lit to represent hope and faith. Hand-held tapers are also used for keeping vigil or 'watch' in times of concern or anxiety, and small tapers are often used as prayer candles in Catholic churches.
Larger, pillar-style candles in glass containers are another form of prayer candle. Many of these candles are dedicated to a particular saint, and the lighting of that candle represents a prayer and an offering to that saint. These unscented, long-burning candles (some burn for as many as 60 hours) are often used for home altars and prayers.
2007-04-26 13:48:11 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Since I've never seen candles in any Protestant church I've been in, I assume you mean the large "sanctuary lights" in Catholic churches.
The big things you donate a dollar or two to light when you need prayers?
They are a "sacramental" of the church. They are blessed. People through out the world will lend their prayers to yours when a sanctary candle is lit for your intentions.
2007-04-26 13:45:59 · answer #4 · answered by Max Marie, OFS 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
For light when the electric goes out. Thats about it.
2007-04-26 13:42:11 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 2⤋
Meditation and relaxation. Affirmations and calming chants.
2007-04-26 13:41:52 · answer #6 · answered by crusadawannabe 2 · 1⤊ 2⤋
MASTURBATION!!!
2007-04-26 13:42:11 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 4⤋