I’m fond of lighting a wee candle for the likes of exams, driving tests, any mild, moderate or severe crisis, health issues and whatever else life may throw at myself or loved ones… but I’ve always wondered, what is the etiquette?
Is it the same as when you blow out the candles on a birthday cake and you’re not meant to tell anyone or the wish won’t come true? Or is it deemed acceptable to let someone know you’ve lit a wee candle for them?
How many candles should you light per person or per issue ?
What is an acceptable rate or the going rate for a candle these days?
Is any kind of candle acceptable or does it need to be a special candle / tea light ?

Thanks in advance. And no, I have no idea how serious or not serious I am here – genuinely want to know though…

by Ok_Contribution_8730

7 comments

  1. I assume the etiquette is similar to the candles you can light in churches.

  2. My Protestant brother in law and Mother in law would go into random chapels and light a wee candle whenever the opportunity presented itself.

    I don’t know much about it myself but I believe that would be an ecumenical matter.

  3. For every time I’ve heard someone say they’d be lighting a wee candle, I’m certain no candles were actually lit. It’s just a saying these days surely, based on the old practice. It’s not magic.

  4. It’s a religious thing. Like lighting one before a statue or something. Grand to talk about

  5. People really do light them! I promise! The ones in most chapels have a suggested price per candle, usually around 40p each. The ritual of rocking up to the chapel, putting the money, lighting the candle in front of the statue, is all a focus for the prayer saying. It’s more formal and considered. If you just promised to pray for someone you might forget, or shove it on at the end of your daily prayers like an afterthought. A candle and prayer feels more personal and proactive.

  7. Yes, chapel and the wee red ones. You’d put whatever change in and said your prayer. I’d of assumed to do this at home, it would be a religious or blessed candle and the same practice would apply, a prayer for whatever or whoever was in your mind. I don’t think there’s a time constraints on how long the candle should be lit. Some would day it wont matter, as it doesnt work. But i think sometimes these practices can be cathartic and soothing…and at the end of the day, is it doing any harm? Sending someone some positivity in your own wee way.

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