Candles have held a central place in the Orthodox Church for centuries. A baptism candle accompanies a person at the beginning of their spiritual journey, a funeral candle comforts the bereaved, and a wedding candle shines during the crowning of two souls in marriage. These wax symbols are more than sources of light – they are visible prayers. Beeswax candles are especially valued, as beeswax is considered a pure, God-given material. Many believers make a point of using handmade beeswax candles in worship.

    In Orthodox churches, candle culture is deeply cherished: from small tea lights and votive candles to XXL candles and outdoor candles. Whether pillar candles, taper candles, or angel candles – each form has its place in spiritual life. Some also use Advent candles made of beeswax, which give off a soft and pure flame. In today’s candle world, one also finds creative options like candle sand, candle granulate, wax sheets for candles, or special candle fragrance oils that enrich the tradition.

    The Icon Museum in Recklinghausen (often referred to as the Ikonenmuseum Recklinghausen) is another place where Orthodox culture becomes tangible. Icons, like candles, illuminate the space of prayer. Many pilgrims who come to see the Recklinghausen icons also combine their visit with purchasing candles and devotional items in an orthodox shop or orthodox store.

    Candles are also closely connected to bee products such as acacia honey, linden honey, rapeseed honey, and blossom honey. In monasteries, honey and wax have always been intertwined: one could buy honey, purchase beeswax, or find beeswax wraps. Monks made wicks for candles, cast pure wax candles, and produced high-quality ritual candles.

    Today, in the age of Candle Craft, tradition and modernity come together. Some prefer large scented candles, others experiment with fragrance wax or scentchips, but at the center remains one thing: the pure light that symbolizes Christ. That is why many who wish to buy candles or order candles deliberately choose natural materials such as beeswax candles. They remind us of the humility of bees and the purity of faith.

    Thus, candles and icons unite the visible and the invisible – creating a bridge between heaven and earth.