Here in the United States, the tradition of lighting candles in the windows of homes during the Christmas holidays was brought by the Irish . ... During Christmastime, Catholic families would leave their doors unlocked and a candle burning in the window to let the priest know he was welcome in their home.
What does a candle in the window mean during Christmas?
A lit candle was often placed in the window when a family member was away or who had died to remember them, letting them know they are missed . It was also seen as a silent prayer for the safe return of the absent person and a sign that someone remained at home tending the fire and waiting.
Why do Irish put candles in windows at Christmas?
The most popular tradition is that the candle in the window represents welcome – the cead mile failte that is nearly Ireland’s trademark. ... Three candles were used to represent Joseph, Mary and the baby Jesus, and the door was left unlocked to let them in should they arrive after the family was asleep.
Why we light candles on Christmas Eve?
Lighting candles on Christmas Eve, also known as “Heilige Nacht,” (Holy Night) is an ancient Christmas tradition. Typically, a big white candle is kept lit the entire night of Christmas Eve, signifying Christ , who is understood to be the “light of the world” (John 8:12, 9:5).
What does 3 candles mean?
The four candles represent the four weeks of Advent, and one candle is lit each Sunday. Three of the candles are purple because the color violet is a liturgical color that signifies a time of prayer, penance, and sacrifice. The first candle, which is purple, symbolizes hope. ... The third candle is pink and symbolizes joy .
Why do Pennsylvanians put candles in their windows?
PA Dutch don’t do anything for no reason, and window candles are no different. They aren’t just ‘for pretty. ... Candles in the window signify an offer of sanctuary, a place to sleep and food in the morning .
Who did Irish people traditionally hope to God by placing candles in their windows on Christmas Eve?
Irish Catholic families hoped that at some time in their lifetime a priest might visit on Christmas Eve to celebrate Mass with them. By lighting a candle in the window they signaled to any passing priest that this was a Catholic home.
Why do Irish people light a candle?
During Christmastime, Irish Catholics would light a candle in the window and leave the door unlocked, allowing priests to slip into their home safely to say Mass . When the British questioned the Irish about the candles, they said that it was a way to welcome Joseph, Mary, and the Baby Jesus during Christmas time.
What does a blue candle in the window mean?
F.P. Answer: With people beginning to put up their Christmas decorations, it’s a good time for the reminder. Project Blue Light , a tradition of placing a blue bulb in a holiday display in a window to show support for law enforcement officers, began in 1988 in Philadelphia.
What does 5 candles in the window mean?
Placing a burning candle in one’s window is a common tradition that dates back to colonial times. ... The lit candle was also placed in the window as a sign of good news or as a beacon to weary travelers. Candles also represented friendship and were seen as a sign of welcome to others.
Did they use real candles on Christmas trees?
Candles were also originally used to decorate Christmas Trees , until safer electric lights were invented! ... In Southern India, Christians often put small oil burning clay lamps on the flat roofs of their homes to celebrate Christmas. Christians in China use paper lanterns to decorate their Christmas trees.
When did they use real candles on Christmas trees?
In 1832 , Harvard University professor Charles Follen, inspired by German tradition, may have been the first American to illuminate a Christmas tree when he decorated his with candles.
What does 3 red candles mean?
There are three consecutive red candles with long bodies on three trading days . Candlestick charts show open, low, close and high prices of a trading day. ... This implies that the price of the security has remained within the low and high range of the day.
What is 3 inside up?
The three inside up pattern is a bullish reversal pattern composed of a large down candle , a smaller up candle contained within the prior candle, and then another up candle that closes above the close of the second candle. ... Consider using these patterns within the context of an overall trend.
How many candles should be on a birthday cake?
You can select the number depending on the person’s age. And of course, no one wants to set the fire alarm ringing once they cross the age of 25!! Thus, adults normally use only one candle for their birthday cake.
What does two candles in the window mean?
Government agencies will be illuminated to celebrate Finland’s 100th anniversary . The illumination of the Government Palace is the job of a man who does not want to retire, as he loves his work so much.
