Description
Light has long been a symbol of power and hope, a reminder of the abiding presence, peace and love of God; of triumph over darkness. The services in this book take inspiration from the many different ways candlelighting has been used over the centuries for devotion and thanksgiving. There are services for special occasions including Advent, Titles of the Christ (the 'O Antiphons'), Easter and All Saints as well as for relevant themes: Birth, Journeying and for times of darkness. They are adaptable so that they can be used at the lighting of the candles in church before the Eucharist, at home as an evening devotion, at the start of a Bible group, or with each candle prayer used as a meditation in itself. Each service is structured to include a welcome, candle-lighting, special intention and closing prayer, with a focus on quiet reflection in the presence of God and the aim of carrying his light out into the world.