The Cross

• The cross on the Paschal candle is the symbol of Christ and his ever burning light. This light burns despite his death.
  
  

Nails and Incense

• Some Paschal candles have nails or grains of incense at each point of the cross to symbolize Jesus' five wounds during the Passion. The incense also symbolizes Christ's sacrifice.
  
  

Alpha and Omega

• The Greek letters alpha and omega is inscribed on the Paschal candle to symbolize that God is the beginning and end of all things. The letters which begin and end the Greek alphabet also mean that the Word of God is eternal. This refers directly to Revelation 1:8 "I am the Alpha and the Omega, says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."
  
  

Current Year

• The current year is put on the on the Paschal candle to symbolize that God is here now as well as in the past and future.
  
  

Color

• The color of the Paschal candle is white. This symbolizes hope and life and is one of the colors of the Easter sanctuary.