This design was inspired by illuminated manuscripts in missals and hymnals.

The top image, a  capital "C" in the shape of a branch, represents  the wood of the Cross with leaves as on the Tree of Life.  Hanging from the branch is a bee hive with hovering bees.  A fantastical garden wrapping the text refers the viewer to the idea of the new heaven and a new earth promised in Rev: 21.  The text, from the prologue of  John's Gospel describing  Christ as the light of the world is set to tone as in a hymnal.  A bustle of bees visit the bountiful garden flowers.  The gold Cross surrounded by fanciful flowers points to the Tree of Life and the heavenly kingdom to come.

Resurrection

This design was inspired by Pope Benedict’s  proclamation of Year of Faith.  Catholics worldwide are focusing on the reason for their Faith, our belief in the Resurrection which proclaims that Jesus is God and man.The top icon is an image of Christ holding the palm branch of victory over death and the open Book of the Gospels with the words, EGO SUM RESURECTIO—I am the Resurrection.The Lamb of God on the wood cross is first a reference to the Old Testament Passover Lamb which was slain then eaten and whose blood marked the doorways of believers so the angel of death would pass over them.  Gold leaf on the icon and the cross reflect the light back to the viewer.

The base is deep red for the blood shed on the Cross.  The words are taken from St. John the Baptist and from the angel at the tomb in Matthew’s Gospel.  “Behold the Lamb of God.  He is Risen as He said He would.”  This is the climax of salvation history and the reason for our Faith.

Exitus Reditus

The inspiration for this design is from St. Thomas Aquinas--everything comes from God and is to return to God.

The top image is the Trinity by Rublev.  It portrays the Old Testament visit of three men portrayed as "angels" to Abraham and Sara at the Oak of Mamre.  The three are presented at a banquet table.  The main symbol for this candle is the call for the believer to sit in the open space at the front of the table and share in the life and love of the Trinity.  This relationship was the original intention for mankind, corporately and individually.  Freedom to love is also freedom to turn away, as Adam did.  Turning away from God ruptured the dynamic flow of life and love from and to God.   As Adam turned so we did also, thus rupturing the flow of life and  love.  The cross bridges the gap.  the alpha and omega above and below proclaim the divinity of Jesus; He is the beginning and the end.  In the green (new life) base are symbols of the Initiation sacraments.

Great Idea! This family of six ordered personalized baptismal candles for Easter.  Throughout the year they will celebrate their baptismal dates at their little oratory.