Igbagboyemi Oluwatosin
Generally, the use of candles (popularly called imole and fitila in Yoruba) has been in existence for a long time.
In Christianity, the candle is commonly used in worship both for decoration and ambiance, and as a symbol that represents the light of God or, specifically, the light of Christ.
Candles are often used as part of prayer rituals, or to honour God. Today, Christian candles are frequently lit for prayers.
When a candlestick is being lightened, it gives light and brightness. Hence, light is one of the most universal and fundamental symbols. It is the spiritual and the divine. Light is the source of goodness.
Just as different people use the candle for different reasons, so is the candle very special to the Celestial Church and part of the doctrine of the church.
The candle signifies Christ himself because Christ is the light of the world. We are the body of Christ . The candle is a symbol of purity, peace and all these are attributes of Christ. For every activity in the Celestial Church, the candle is never exempted because it plays a significant role. The moment it is lightened, the Lord dwells in through the influence of worship and prayer .
However, it’s important to note that the candle will not automatically work without the help of prayers and that is why in Celestial Church it is mostly used for prayers. It’s an object, a simple tool of connecting to the spiritual realm.
And also the candle is useless without a spark. It reminds us that we all are dead and useless unless we are lit with the spark of the Holy Spirit, which ignites the flame of life.
Misconception about candles in Celestial Church.
Many people who are not opportune to get enough findings or search deeply about the church doctrine and mode of worship perceive all activities in the church as rituals.
The popular misconception about the church and candle usage is that :It is mostly used for money ritual and to destroy other people, especially someone who offends a member.
Though this is easily believed by non-members based on what they see on the screen performed by some film actors and what some members who are yet to be born again display outside when there is an issue.
Some even think the Celestial Church use different colours of the candle. The candle (white) symbolises light in the darkness of life.
.It reminds us of Christ our Savior, who said, “I am the Light of the world.” (John 9:5)
.It reminds us that we must also shine as lights, for Christ said that we, too, are the light of the world.
For He said: “You are the light of the world.” “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matt 5:14-16).
.Candle gives warmth. It reminds us that we must also give warmth to those around us, especially the needy.
The candle in CCC is regarded as a symbol of light which Jesus Christ represents in the CCC. (John 8:19; John.8:12). It isn’t the candle that performs the miracles that Jesus does in the CCC, but the name Jesus that we call in our prayers.
For those who don’t know much about the Celestial Church of Christ, it is a christ church founded by Late Rev SBJ Oshoffa on September 29, 1947.
The Celestial Church of Christ is widely known for their special uniform, which is generally called the Sutana ( a pure white garment which signifies purity) and also the special mode of worship which makes it different from other denominations thus bringing special attention to the church.
Everything about the church is divinely arranged and there are rules and regulations guiding the church.
The church is known for its special activities such as harvest , naming ceremony and the yearly Christmas convocation .
The mission of the church is to covert sinners to Christ, and save many from falling into the pit of hell.
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