A Christ Candle (also called a Paschal Candle or Easter Candle) is used as a symbol of Jesus Christ and its light represents His risen life and resurrection. During Easter celebrations all over the world, Christ Candles are lit during the “Liturgy of Light” (see A Family ‘Light of Christ’ Easter Celebration post) to mark his risen life overcoming all darkness and death.

At Little T, in the Children’s Ministry, we use Christ candles for our Easter Celebrations and Baptism presentations. It is placed on or near our communal prayer tables (see picture below). The candle is usually a white pillar with a red cross on its column. Some candles include the Alpha (meaning ‘beginning’ or ‘first’) symbol above the cross and an Omega (meaning ‘end’ or ‘last’) symbol below the cross. Before lighting the candle, the children say a special blessing while physically tracing the symbols of the cross on the candle.

Making a Christ Candle for your home can help your family celebrate Easter in an intimate and familiar way for the children. Here is what you will need to make a Christ Candle for your home:

Candle (pillar, taper, votive, tea light). A white pillar candle is ideal to accommodate the image of the cross but not crucial.
Candle holder (brass, glass, coaster)
Cross (red wax strips, washi tape, red marker or paper can be used to fashion a cross and affix to the candle. Red tacks or pins can be used to affix the cross as an option)

If you don’t have the materials to make a cross, a small wooden cross or palm cross can be used to lay next to a candle to designate it as a Christ Candle. Here is a picture of some ideas:

Blessing of the Christ Candle

After you have made the candle and before lighting it, take a moment to say these words together, taking turns to trace the symbols on the cross, as a way of anchoring for the children how the candle is a symbol of Christ.

“Christ yesterday and today “ (trace the vertical arm of the cross)

“The beginning and the end” (trace the horizontal arm of the cross)

“Christ the Alpha “ (touch above the cross)

“and the Omega” (touch below the cross)

“All time belongs to Him and all the ages. To Him be glory and power through every age forever. Amen. Now let us light the Candle…Alleluia! May the light of Christ, rising in glory, dispel the darkness of our hearts and minds.” OR “The Light Shines in the Darkness “ (John 1:5 - for younger children)

Making a Christ Candle for Easter