Unity Candle Lighting Ceremony
The lighting of the Unity Candle is a relatively recent addition to the wedding ceremony. It symbolises the uniting of two individuals becoming one.
Three Candles
The Unity Candle Ceremony incorporates two taper candles and a larger central pillar candle – the Unity Candle. At the beginning of the ceremony the taper candles are lit by someone special to you. It could be a relative, friend or a child.
Later in the ceremony, between the exchange of vows and the formal declaration of marriage, the bride and groom take the two candles and light the large pillar candle together.
The couple can then choose to blow out their individual candles to emphasise commitment to their union. Or they may be kept lit beside the central candle – this symbolises that though united, individuality is retained.
Remembering Your Wedding Day
Many couples remember their wedding day by lighting their Unity Candle on each anniversary. This is a beautiful way to re–live your special day and it also provides an opportunity to re–commit your love to each other.
Make it Personal
The Unity Candle is usually white. Couples often add to this simplicity by decorating the candle with the invitation, an inscription, a picture of the couple, or some other ornamentation. The lighting ceremony may be accompanied by a special musical selection or a reading provided by someone special to you.
The Lighted Candle
The lighted candle close entwines
Two hearts in love together,
Friendships dearest pledge is made
In joy forever.
United, you shall walk through life
Sharing earth’s pain and pleasure,
Hand in hand you shall strive
For achievement in life together.
Should the path be rough and thorny
Let love sustain and guide you,
Should the way be strewn with roses?
Let joy of life sustain you.