Light a candle in memory of loved ones or to honor ancestral spirits

11/28/2023

As we light a candle in memory, we are reminded that the light of their life still shines within us. -Unknown

Holidays are in full flow right now in the US and the missing presence of loved ones becomes even stronger to cope with. Recently we suddenly lost our 10 year old Boston Terrier. After receiving his ashes i came home and placed four different color candles out with a plushie that my son got in honor of him. On my bar sat his ashes, candles, and a paw print they had made specially for us. I allowed the candles to burn until they went out on their own. I felt really special to honor our pet of 10 years in such a beautiful way. Sharing the memories, laughing and crying.

So at Thanksgiving, i decided to light candles in honor of our lost loved ones and ancestors. It gave me a comforting feeling knowing that i had a way to feel symbolically connected in a spiritual way. Candles are used in many practices, churches, etc. If you feel called to honor your loved ones during the holidays, light them a candle and know there presence is there.

Honoring spirit by candlelight can be a beautiful and symbolic practice. Here are some ways to do so:

Altar Setup: Create a dedicated altar space with items that hold spiritual significance to you. Place candles on the altar, choosing colors that resonate with the spirit or your intention.

Prayer or Meditation: Light a candle while engaging in prayer or meditation to focus your thoughts and intentions. Use the candle flame as a point of concentration, symbolizing the connection between the physical and spiritual realms.

Ritual Lighting: Light a candle during specific rituals or ceremonies that hold personal or cultural meaning. Consider using different colored candles for various purposes (e.g., white for purity, blue for healing, etc.).

Remembrance Ritual: Light a candle in memory of loved ones or to honor ancestral spirits. Share stories or memories while the candle burns as a way to celebrate their lives.

Setting Intentions: Before lighting the candle, set intentions for healing, guidance, or connection with the spiritual realm. Focus on your intentions as the candle burns, visualizing positive energy.

Elemental Connection: Acknowledge the elemental symbolism of fire by lighting a candle. Express gratitude for the trans-formative and purifying qualities associated with fire.

Quiet Reflection: Spend time in quiet reflection in the presence of candlelight. Allow the flickering flame to guide you into a state of mindfulness or contemplation.

Candle Colors and Meanings: Explore the meanings of different candle colors in candle magic. Choose colors that align with your intentions or the spirit you are honoring. Remember, the key is to infuse the act with personal meaning and intention. Whether you follow a specific tradition or create your own rituals, the candlelight can serve as a powerful tool for connecting with the spiritual realm.

Candle Color Meanings