What Are Baptism Candles?

Baptism candles are part of the Christian religion used as a symbol of the light of Christ entering the life of the baptized child.  They are often large personalized pillar candles decorated in ribbon and pins which must be presented at the baptism by the godparents of the child.  It is also customary for the godparents to take baptism candle to the three consecutive communions following the baptism.  The Paschal Candle, sometimes referred to as the “Easter” candle, is used to light baptism candles as a symbol of the resurrected Christ who will live in the child forever.  The practice of baptism is a sign of washing away the sins of a child and welcoming them as a member of the church family.  It is expected that infants who are baptised be raised in the faith, and participate in the church as they grow older.

Personalized Baptism Candles

It is customary for a childs baptism candle to be personalized with the name of the child, the date of their baptism, and the location where they were baptised.  It is also optional to include a small scripture that has significance to the godparents or to the child.  Baptism candles can be personalized with this information by molding the wax on to the exterior of the candle, or by etching out the details of the personalization by hand or with a machine.  Modern baptism candle companies can even offer to seamlessly overlay photos of the infant onto the candle.

It’s also common for the parents of the infant to create memorable tokens of the event for friends and family to take home such as small candle tins with the baby’s name and date of baptism along with a simple scripture.  This type of gesture is certainly not necessary, but it represents a certain gratitude that the child should be so welcomed into the church home.

Decorating Baptism Candles

Part of the job of the godparent before presenting the baptism candle at the ceremony is to decorate it, further personalizing it.  Most commonly, baptism candles are decorated with a simple candle and bow, however the decorations can be as complex as a tulle and streamer, or even a small floral corsage or bouquet.  Baptism candles do not need to be overdone, they should simply reflect the wonderful relationship between an infant and his church family, and more specifically, the important journey the child embarks on with Christ.