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Candles Processional
The custom of carrying candles in procession dates back to before Christian times. Christians adopted this custom for their liturgies. Christian liturgy has needed light, not only for purposes of seeing and reading but because candles and lamps highlight certain activities or points of focus. Roman emperors and people of importance were accompanied by servants bearing torches. This was true even in broad daylight when, during processions and parades, torches signaled to spectators that an important personage was present. After the peace of Constantine (313 AD) this custom was retained and transferred to the Pope or bishop when he processed into the church. This mark of respect is now used to highlight the professional cross.
