Why does the Church require that the candles used at Mass be at least 51% beeswax? In order to best understand why the Church prescribes the use of beeswax, we should first understand the symbolic use of candles.
More than just mere illumination, the light of candles in our liturgy represent Our Lord dispelling the darkness of this world, as He tells us in John 9:5 when He says “I am the Light of the World”. The wax of the candle represents Our Lord’s Flesh, the wick His Soul, and the flame His Divinity. The Divinity (flame) consumes His Flesh (wax) as He sacrificed Himself.
But why beeswax? Well, the natural wax produced by bees is considered the most pure, symbolizing the Pure Flesh of Christ, derived from that of the Virgin Mary. Beeswax also reflects the industrious nature of bees as they dedicate their lives to the hive, as Our Lord gave all of Himself for our salvation. Therefore, Holy Mother Church has traditionally used beeswax candles to maintain this symbolism.
With Candlemas approaching, I thought I would remind everyone to purchase beeswax candles for your home. I keep one burning at all times, and certainly have them on hand for sick calls, weather emergencies, and family prayer. Mine have been blessed by a traditional priest on the frat of Candlemas in years past. I will be replenishing my supply this year, and so I thought I’d link here to the Ambrosian Candle Company. I recently discovered this company on X and saw they’re a traditional Catholic family who produce their beeswax candles by hand. If you order by January 22, the candles will ship in time for Candlemas.
A blessed Sunday to all!
-NC