What is the purpose of a unity candle?
In modern wedding ceremonies, a unity candle is a single candle lit by two other candles–one held by the bride and one held by the groom–symbolizing the creation of a new entity: one marriage made from two individuals.History/SpeculationUnity candles have a possible tie to Roman traditions. According to UNRV History, a torch was carried by a Roman bride to light the bridal procession’s way to her new husband’s house after their wedding ceremony, where she extinguished it and shook out the remains on the threshold of the doorway.SignificanceA unity candle symbolizes two becoming one. In Christian ceremonies, a unity candle demonstrates the biblical reference to a man leaving his parents and becoming “one flesh” with his wife. In other ceremonies, it symbolizes the joining of two eternal flames (or two life spirits) into one flame (or one life spirit).MethodsSometimes a member of the bride’s or groom’s party or family will light their respective candle, or they each light their own can
