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liturgy section sanctuary lamp Jacquie Monday, June 2, 2014

Question:

When I was a child (in the late 40s and early 60's) the sanctuary lamp was lit from the pascal candle. When the sanctuary lamp got low the flame was taken up with a taper to light the next sanctuary lamp so the light of the resurrection symbol lasted a year and was put out after the Good Friday service. At some time in life I read the rubrics that gave this instruction. Has it been lost? or has this lovely tradition not been passed on?
Question Answered by Mr. Jacob Slavek

Dear Jacquie,

I did not see any instruction that requires the flame for the sanctuary lamp must come from the Paschal Candle.. I checked the rubrics, the Girm, and other sources.

I think the reason might be practical:  the sanctuary lamp is used to indicate that the Blessed Sacrament is reserved.  If for any reason the Eucharist is not present, then the candle should be extinguished and then later relit.

Mr. Slavek
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