The light shines in the darkness,
and the darkness did not overcome it.

~ John 1:5

Light a Candle

Sunday morning worship is a sacred time, and few Sundays feel more set apart than All Saints Sunday. The day’s rituals are poignant and beautiful; they bring strong memories of the past while providing tangible reminders that God is with us in the present. During the Feast of All Saints, we remember those who have passed away. We fill the chapel with memories, take communion, sing familiar hymns, and light candles.

The light that comes from candles is important and powerful — we talked about candles in the worship service last week. In Christianity, candles represent the light of Christ and the presence of the Holy Spirit. We use candles to both celebrate and remember. Candles feel warm and special, providing portable flames which dance, invite, and calm us wherever we are.

Saint John's member Paul Hudson has been making candles with his family since he was a kid. First by melting wax over ice cubes, then by melting wax inside of wine bottles, and later with more sophisticated methods and ingredients. He says making candles is fun and therapeutic and that he loves giving them away to friends and neighbors.

This year, All Saints Sunday is the weekend before a national election. I will appreciate the time set apart for a moment of worship and quiet, away from the noise of political attack ads. Personally, I long for time to center and focus. Looking outward, I am grateful for candidates called to public service, and I can imagine these final days must be grueling for them.

As I sat down to draft this article, I looked up the etymology of the word, “candle,” wondering if the origins of the word might give me insight into its meaning:

Candle (noun): a usually molded or dipped mass of wax or tallow containing a wick that may be burned (as to give light, heat, or scent or for celebration or votive purposes). 
Etymology: Old English candel "candle," from Latin candela "candle," from candēre "to shine, be bright" — related to CANDID, CANDIDATE

The election is everywhere! Finding this etymology of candle made me wonder … what is God trying to tell me?

I can’t make these next days go any faster, but I can seek God’s meaning in this tense season. In the swirling chaos of our news cycle, one bright spot stays steady, dancing, inviting, calming: It is the light of Christ which leads us now, led us yesterday, and will lead us tomorrow.

For those running for office, those voting, and those younger than us watching it all happen, I give thanks for a God who is present through it all. The Feast of All Saints will surround us with God’s divine wisdom in a season which feels particularly human. In life and death, in voting and votives, in strife and peace, God is there. Let us light a candle and give thanks. Amen.

All Saints Sunday Memory Gallery
Sunday, November 3

This year, we will celebrate All Saints Sunday on November 3. As a part of our history and Christian tradition, this special day and service present us with an opportunity to give thanks for all those who have gone before us in the faith.

You are invited to bring photos, mementos, or other cherished items that remind you of loved ones who have passed. Please bring them to the chapel either Saturday, November 2, between 10 a.m. and Noon, or before the services that Sunday morning. Tables and windowsills will be used for placement of items and cards will be provided for inscribing the names of loved ones being remembered. If possible, please retrieve items after the 11 a.m. service.

Together, we will honor and remember those who have touched our lives and left us with lasting memories.

Tags: candles, elections, all saints sunday