Unity candle

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The lighting of a unity candle is a relatively recent addition to the traditional wedding ceremony, most popular in the United States. The unity candle ceremony uses two taper candles with a large pillar candle (called the "unity candle") in the center. At the beginning of the wedding ceremony, a representative from each family (usually the mothers of the bride and groom) light the two taper candles. Later in the ceremony (usually after the formal vows), the bride and groom use the two taper candles to light the large pillar (unity) candle together.

Often a unity candle is decorated with the wedding invitation, an inscription, a picture of the couple, or other ornamentation. The candles are almost always white. The lighting ceremony may be accompanied by special music, an explanation of the symbolism, or just some period of mutual gazing by the happy couple. In some circles, it is customary for the couple to save the unity candle and relight it on anniversaries.

[edit] Symbolism

It is sometimes performed to symbolize the joining together of the two families, and their love for the bride and the groom, into one united family that loves the new husband and wife. More often it is to symbolize the union of two individuals, becoming one in commitment. The popular explanation is that the taper candles are lit by representatives from each family to symbolize the love and allegiance that each family has for either the bride or the groom.[1] As the bride and groom use these two flames to light the unity candle, they bring the love of both families together in a united love of the new couple. Generally, the two tapers are left burning and replaced in their holders (because each family's love for their own will continue). However, in some ceremonies they may blow out their individual candles.

When the ceremony is alternatively performed to symbolize simply the joining together of the bride and groom, the tapers may be blown out, to indicate that the two lives have been permanently merged, or they may leave them lit beside the central candle, symbolizing that the now-married partners have not lost their individuality.[2]

[edit] History

The origin of the unity candle is unclear. In all likelihood, it is at least 30-40 years old.[3] Although there is some evidence to suggest it goes back to at least the 1930's if not earlier.

It is sometimes performed in Christian,[4] interfaith, and secular weddings; however, it is not of Christian origin, and is even prohibited in certain conservative churches.[citation needed] It is not part of the Catholic wedding ceremony, and many priests do not allow its inclusion in the ceremony. It may have its origins in Zoroastrianism or New Ageism.

It may have become popular during the 1970's when mothers wanted a greater role in the wedding.[citation needed]

The lighting of a unity candle was also performed at the wedding of Luke and Laura on the TV soap opera General Hospital in 1981, which almost certainly popularized the ritual to a national, if not international, audience.

[edit] References

  1. ^ KOCO. History of Wedding Traditions: The Wedding Candle. Retrieved on 2007-12-12.
  2. ^ Nina Callaway. Unity Candles and Other Unity Traditions. About.com. Retrieved on 2007-12-12.
  3. ^ Matthew Alice. What is the history/origin of the dreaded unity candle?. San Diego Reader. Retrieved on 2007-12-12.
  4. ^ Mary Fairchild. Lighting of the Unity Candle. About.com. Retrieved on 2007-12-12.