15. Candles and lampadas

The use of candles and lampadas (icon lamps) in church is very symbolic. Lampadas are a symbol of spiritual light and joy, which burn day and night. In the Holy Gospel, Christ calls Himself the “Light of the World.” The warmth coming from the flame is like Christs love for us, and how He wants us to love Him.

Before the main icons stands a polycandila, a candlestand made to hold many candles. During a hierarchical service, the Bishop blesses the faithful with a two-branched candlestick (a dikiri)—representing the two natures of the Son of God, human and divine; and a three-branched candlestick (a trikiri), reminding us of the Holy Trinity, from whence comes our enlightenment.

When we place candles before the Cross and the icons they are a physical sign of our prayer to God to burn up our sinful habits, to enlighten our minds with godly wisdom, and to warm our hearts with His love. We won’t receive any benefit from a candle or an icon lamp if our heart does not also participate in the worship service. We must first light the holy flame of prayer to God in our own hearts.

As a sign of reverence for Our All-Merciful Lord, His Most Blessed Mother, and His holy saints, the church is incensed by the priest and the deacon during the services. Incense represents the prayers of the faithful ascending to Heaven. Christians should humbly bow their heads as the priest or deacon passes and incenses them, that their prayers may be light, fragrant and aflame with love for God. In the words of the Prophet David: “Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.” (Psalm 140:2)