Votive candles were initially and are still used by Roman Catholics in prayer ceremonies. Those that are used for religious purposes can be either the size of tea light candles or long tapered candles, both of which are lit in offering to either a saint or to Jesus Christ. These candles can be used to pray for someone else and they are lit as a symbol of that prayer.
These candles are also used in Methodist churches as a votive offering to pray for someone’s soul that has passed away. Those that are used in religious ceremonies or prayers are almost always white.
In contrast with those used for religious purposes, the votive candles that are used in homes are usually used with decoration in mind or to release a scent. The ones found in a home as a decoration are usually around two inches tall and around once and a half inches in diameter. However, the size of the candle depends on the person’s preference. This is just the most common type. Some votive candle holders are made of stained glass or other types of glass that are perfect for reflecting the beautiful and holy sight of a lit candle, especially candles that are votive.
Usually sold in bulk in packs of four or six, votive candles are very inexpensive. They usually can be purchased for around three dollars for a pack of four and probably four dollars for a pack of six. Luckily for those who find the color white to be boring, the candles used at home, as opposed to the ones used in religious services, come in a wide variety of colors. A lot of the ones on the market also come scented. With the hope that the delightful scent will fill a home, scented candles are a popular choice of decoration for almost any dwelling.
Although originally meant to be used in prayer at church, these candles are now widely used at home. If you are looking for a way to add style to a room without spending too much, get some votive candles. It does not matter if you are religious or not, your eyes and nose will appreciate the purchase.
The history behind votive style candles is vast, but today they are most often seen in homes as mere decorative accessories. They work with any decor perfectly.