You can still wander into many old cathedrals around the world and find a place to light a candle, whether in memory of a loved one or as a prayer. While living in Italy, I made a ritual of lighting a candle for my family each time I went into a different cathedral. I visited my college roommate last spring and when we went to the National Cathedral, where the following photograph was taken, I was struck by how many candles were lit, reflecting how many people were praying or remembering something or someone significant.
A tradition in my dad’s side of the family is to light a candle at the graves of those who have gone before us. My grandfather, in his mid-eighties, still observes this practice, lighting candles at the graves of his parents and brothers as well as his in-laws. He’s always reflectively quiet during this simple ceremony, and I find it so sweet and beautiful. This is a practice I hope to continue someday…
A Patriot in Prague 