A Candle in the Window

Tradition holds that the Irish used to put a candle in the window on Christmas Eve. New England homes are famous for them. The reason for the candle was a symbol - that if Mary and Joseph, or any traveler came by on that holy night needing a place to stay, the candle would let them know there was a welcome in that home. They would even leave the door unlatched, and a simple fare on the table.

However, at Christmas Mass a few years ago, I heard about the real reason the Irish put the candle in the window. At a time in Ireland when it was unlawful for priests to celebrate Mass, the candle was a secret message to any priest travelling on the road, that the residents within would welcome him, and he could celebrate Mass in that home. If any British soldiers questioned the home owners about the candle in the window, they used the story about Mary and Joseph
Whatever the origin, our little candles can make a beautiful and simple declaration on these dark New England nights..."The one who is the True Light, who gives light to everyone, has come into the world." John 1:9