Which candle placed near the casket during the Funeral Mass signifies the everlasting light of Christ?

• A. Rosary
• B. Pall
• C. Paschal candle
• D. Wake Service

Answer: (C)

Symbolism of light in the Funeral Mass: the candle placed near the casket represents the everlasting light of Christ. The Paschal candle is the big, specially blessed candle symbolizing the Resurrection and the presence of the Risen Christ. During the Funeral Mass it stands as a reminder that Christ’s light accompanies the deceased into eternal life and that that light shines for all gathered in faith. It is often referred to as the Christ candle because of this clear association with Christ’s victory over darkness. The other items mentioned play different roles: a Rosary is a set of prayer beads used for devotional prayer, a Pall is the cloth covering placed over the casket symbolizing the person who has died, and a Wake Service is the gathering before the Mass; none of these convey the message of eternal light in the same way the Paschal candle does.