Unity Candle – Western Tradition
20th December 2011
The Unity candle is a large (usually white) candle, which is often wrapped in paper etched with the names of the bridal couple and the date of their wedding. The tradition is practiced in many western countries – Australia certainly being one of them.
It typically goes down like this: a member from each side of the family (usually a parent, sibling or close relative) lights a taper candle at the beginning of the ceremony. Then at a point during the ceremony, the bride and groom each take one of the taper candles and use it to light their pillar candle.
The meaning behind the tradition is that this is a symbolisation of the unifying of the two individuals as one entity. It is also representative of two families joining together.
Often the lighting of the candle is accompanied by an explanation of the tradition by the officiant, and or music of the couples' choosing. Some couples keep their candle to relight again on their anniversaries.