There is something special about the flame of a candle. In Christian settings, candles are often used as part of worship services or private devotions. Jewish traditions include lighting candles at home for the Sabbath each week, and of course the seven flames of the menorah that are lit at special times of the year. Buddhists can light candles in front of shrines or during meditation. Candles are also used in memorials, remembering and honoring those who have died. In spiritual practices, the light of a candle can represent many things, including the light of God, the light of wisdom, enlightenment, purity, holiness, honor, the presence of the Holy Spirit, or a recognition and acknowledgement of a sacred place or time. We also use candles to create a romantic setting or a time of relaxation, as in a spa. Perhaps these too are “spiritual” in their own way. Candles can also still serve practical purposes too – to help us see in a place of literal darkness (like when the power goes out at home). What does lighting a candle mean to you? Try it and let us know how it goes.