The silence inside the cathedral was complete and perfect. Like swimming in the deep end of the pool, I felt heavy, feet dragged slowly, breath stopped. I was intruding it seemed, each shutter close of the camera was deafening. Each footstep one too far forward. The routine I’m familiar with, giving an offering, lighting a candle, saying a prayer. I was born into the Catholic church, grew up on wooden pews and kneeling for confession and prayers. But as an adult it isn’t the Catholic church I turn to for support. But I do believe there is strength in offering up prayers and putting supplications out into the universe. There is power in lighting a candle as a physical symbol of a prayer. So today, I searched for my own peace in the formality and ritual, and I earnestly said prayers that I hope make a difference. It was a good friend’s idea, “It’s amazing how good [lighting a candle] can make you feel.” But more than my own good feelings, I prayed for healing, for guidance, for strength for someone I love.
Silence stood next to me as I lit the a candle in the blue votive set. It was the first time the wick had been lit. I bowed my head and closed my eyes. Later, when I looked up again, the flame danced slightly as the air moved around it. The silence was still there, but somehow it slid away from me as I turned and walked back up the aisle.
Funny you should post this today. I don't go to mass anymore, but today I'm going to light a candle too, also for a friend and his family.
There is something about that, long forgotten and deeply buried, but there it is… solace in familiar rituals.
Your pictures made my heart ache today, I miss home.
“Long forgotten and deeply buried.” I like that. I wish I could send a little bit of the Lowcountry your way. But know that with the good we're also pollen filled and already swarmed by mosquitoes. LOL. Does that help?
I remember my grandmother taking us up to the candles after church to light a candle for a deceased family member. I saw it more as an opportunity to light a match. ( it was a bit of a problem for me when I was much younger) Anyway, I never appreciated what my grandmother was trying to do. Lighting a candle isn't just to remember deceased relatives. It's a chance to take a moment to think about and pray for anyone you know that may be struggling in any part of their lives. There is a true power to that. As we get caught up in our daily dramas, I think we should all take a moment to “light a candle” for someone who can use those happy thoughts.
Such a great post and wonderful pictures as well.
Oh Otto. This is a lovely memory, and pulls at my heart strings because I'm a sucker for Grandmothers. But you're right, I think even taking a small moment to think about and remember friends who might need support-even if a physical candle isn't lit-is so important.
Thanks for the kudos and the visit! And please come back anytime.