Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Unity Candle

We would like to include the unity candle in our service. Any suggestions on how to do this?

There are a number of different ways to incorporate the unity candle. There are two candles which are lit prior to or during the service. This can be done by the clergy, both sets of parents, attendants, etc. One of these burning candles is on the bride's side of the alter (or a side table) and the other on the groom's side. A taller, unlit candle is in the middle. After the couple are pronounced husband and wife, they each take a lit candle and together light the unlit, center candle. They then blow out the two other candles. This symbolizes the unification of two families and two hearts and so two people become one. During the lighting of the candle, the clergy may talk about the significance of the unity candle, a soloist may sing, or there may just be silence.

No comments: