The Christmas Candle

"It begins with one simple candle—so full of golden light"

After Gracie reluctantly joins her church’s Posada, she sets about trying to extinguish not only the candle that has been lit in her honor, but all those that represent the other members of her group. With each flame she blows out, another character disappears until Gracie is left lost and alone.

The tradition of candles at Christmastime began in medieval Europe, where a very large Christmas candle was burned until the Twelfth Night in remembrance of the arrival of the Wise Men to Bethlehem. In Victorian times, candles represented good will toward those less fortunate. They were placed in windows from December 25 to January 6 to welcome passersby needing shelter and food.

Some people believe that flames from burning candles frighten away evil spirits during the darkest days of the year. In Norway, candles that burn out on Christmas Eve are thought to bring bad luck for the family. Another ancient tradition suggests that placing a candle in the window symbolically lights the way of the Holy Family as it provides a welcome for friends, neighbors, and holiday guests.

Lights were used in many pagan winter festivals. The Romans bound candles to trees during the festival of Saturnalia. Candles were also placed in the window of every Celtic home and bonfires were set ablaze. During medieval times a giant candle was lit and was kept glowing until Twelfth-night. However, Martin Luther is credited with placing candles on trees as decorations representing stars.

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The Christmas Tree
Slovakian Christmas Eve Traditions
Pennsylvania German Christmas Traditions
Christmas Around the World