Lighting a Votive, Lifting a Prayer

To the far left of the Chapel altar, near the red sanctuary light that signifies the presence of Christ, sits a small stand crafted by a metal artist from Deland. Its compact design holds 35 votive candles.

While not all Episcopal Churches have votive candles, St. Barnabas does. The ritual lighting of a votive is a heart-filled connection to God in an outward and visible way. This practice of petitioning to God has been part of the Anglican tradition since ancient times.

Those who participate in our services are invited to kneel at the votive stand before or after, and light a candle as an intention (a prayer) for a thanksgiving, a remembrance, a petition for healing, or any other need or request.

We light a candle with a flameless “arc” lighter during church services. After the 11 o’clock service, the candle is extinguished with a brass snuffer, given in memory of Lee Hays for her leadership in the St. Claire Guild.

Thanks to the women of the Guild, led by Leslie Seamonson, we have another way to elevate our prayer life. No longer active, the Guild was a flourishing group that did much to meet specific needs of the parish. Most of its members have passed; their gift, however, so carefully researched, purchased, and blessed, remains as a way for all to lift their prayers to God, who is always present.

Join us at St. Barnabas to explore the significance of votives and how they can be a way for you to have a conversation with God.