Reuse of Baptism Candle

[CKA]

I am curious if there are any reasons not to reuse a baptism candle for another Baptism
Is it ok to share them or reuse them?

I was thinking about passing down my baptism candle on but now think it is a nice idea for each to have their own and to re-light ones candle on the anniversary of ones Baptism.

Thoughts?

 

[NeCo99]

At our parish, the kids were asked to bring their Baptism candles for the first communion. Some didn’t have those available and a few families had a baptism candle that was considered a “family” candle. I think it had been passed down from grandparent to parent to child, etc. Not sure if it’s allowed, I just overheard them discussing it when someone complimented them on the beauty of the candle.

 

[Mintaka]

Baptism candles are sacramentals, if I’m not mistaken. You have a lot of leeway, as long as you’re not treating them disrespectfully.

Some people bury people with their Baptismal candles, but there’s also nothing wrong with saving and reusing them. It’s a lot similar to the many different customs people have for Baptismal gowns; some people make new ones for every baby, while others pass them down through the whole family.

 

[Bookcat]

You should have one for each person.

I recall a tradition of burning it when the person is dying…

Reminding one of their baptism etc.

 

[DJJG]

You can do whatever you want with it; there are no rules and regs regarding “Baptismal Candles”.
When I was baptized, before Vatican II, the priest handed you a candle to use and then you gave it back after the ceremony was over:bigyikes: . I don’t believe it fazed me one bit (I just don’t remember all the details - being only a week or two old ).

 

[Phemie]

You can do whatever you want with it; there are no rules and regs regarding “Baptismal Candles”.
When I was baptized, before Vatican II, the priest handed you a candle to use and then you gave it back after the ceremony was over:bigyikes: . I don’t believe it fazed me one bit (I just don’t remember all the details - being only a week or two old ).

I had mine for years but I got the impression from my mom that it had been a present from the priest’s housekeeper who was a family friend. Unfortunately, it was a vrey long, thin taper, decorated, and it didn’t survive the years of shiting back and forth in my dresser.