31 July 2025
Have you sometimes wished you could give concrete expression to a deep longing, prayer, fear or worry? Now you can.
Lighting a candle in a place of worship is an ancient tradition that is deeply rooted in religious culture. It maintains a link with the faith practices of previous generations. Burning a candle in a worship space is an act weighty with symbolism, devotion, and emotional and spiritual significance. Candles are symbols of the light of faith and hope in what may feel like darkness, reminding us that God is always present.
Thanks to the skill of the Art Department’s Ms Laura Gent, a gifted potter, there is now a ceramic sand tray in Chapel for lighting candles. Students are invited to light a candle and enjoy a moment of quiet when the Chapel is open. The explanatory card on the fireproofed table that houses the tray and candles explains well its significance.
The wording is from a similar facility in Salisbury Cathedral in England:
Lighting a candle is a prayer:
When we have gone it stays alight,
kindling in the hearts and minds
of others the prayers we have
already offered for them
and for others, the sad, the sick and the suffering –
and prayers of gratitude too.
Lighting a candle is a parable:
burning itself out
it gives light to others.
Christ gave himself for others,
he calls us to give ourselves for others.
Lighting a candle is a symbol:
of love and hope,
of light and warmth.
Our world needs them all.
Grateful thanks to Ms Gent and the Maintenance Department team for making this new installation possible.
The Reverend Julia Denny-Dimitriou
Associate Chaplain
