Q: What is the deal with “Unity Candle” in a wedding and is it part of the Catholic Tradition?

Although it is a “lovely” thing that involves members from both families signifying the joining of the two families, the fact remains that lighting of the unity candle is not part of the Rite of the Church for the Sacrament of Matrimony. The reason being is that the unity among Christians is through the Sacraments of the Church, especially the Sacrament of Baptism. These Sacraments which are given to us so generously by the Mother Church grafted us into the Mystical Body of Christ. Indeed the Holy Matrimony is one of these great Sacrament. That’s why some Catholic priests are reluctant to incorporate unity candles in the Nuptial Mass.

Q: Can I still have a candle lighting ceremony of some sort at my wedding?

Yes, of course, you can! Just not during the nuptial Mass or during the ceremony.

• You can light the wedding candle in front of a statue of Our Lady and dedicate your marriage to the Blessed Mother after the signing of the register.

• You can also light the wedding candles at the wedding reception.
• Light the wedding candles at your wedding anniversaries.

Q: What is the reason behind making this post?

The reason for this post is obviously not to discourage you to buy a wedding candle! I mean, why would I do that! The reason for this post is to ensure our customers here in Church Candles NZ make good use of our products within the liturgical rites of the Church.

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