Later, when Christianity had not only ceased to suffer persecution, but also became the dominant religion, the custom is to light candles in the temple survived, becoming a symbol of faith and love to the Creator, to the virgin and all the saints. As explained by the priests, there is no strict, binding rules, where it is and how many candles should be put, by coming to the temple. However, there are some rules. First, it is desirable to put the candle to the icon symbolizing religious holiday that is celebrated on this day. This icon is usually put in the middle of the temple, and it is easily recognized because it is in front of her lit by numerous candles. If you have any doubts, you can ask the priest of any temple worker or parishioner.If people for some reason will not put the first candle for the holiday of the icon, there is no sin. He may first put the spark to other icons or to the relics of St. (of course, if they are it is in this temple). Very often the question arises: where should be put the living and memorial candles? There are some nuances that need to remember. Asking about the health of yourself, your family or someone else, the spark put before the images of the Saviour, our lady, St. Panteleimon the healer. You can also put candles before the images of those saints, which the Savior endowed with the power to help people in some specific circumstances (for example, Saint Nicholas is the patron Saint of sailors). Candle for the repose of the put at the crucifixion, on the eve, that is on a special Desk reserved for this purpose. You can find this easily on your own or to refer the matter to any temple servant or member. It is advisable to come to Church before the service begins to quietly, without disturbing anyone, to put candles. If the service has already started, and in the temple a lot of people – do not squeeze the icons, and tell the candle for those who are standing in front of you, quietly asking for a favor and clarify before exactly how it should stand. Or wait until the end of the service and set yourself.
Where to put candles
Why in Christian churches decided to put a candle? This custom originates in ancient times, when Christianity came to the Roman Empire and brutally persecuted. Then Christians were forced to meet and hold services in secret, in underground quarries (the catacombs). Because there was darkness, people were brought lit candles. In addition to sheer necessity, candles and played a sacred role: they became the symbol of a voluntary gift, the sacrifice which believers bring to God.
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