Which altar candle is suitable for the church altarpiece?

An altar candle must fit both practically and visually into the church’s altar stand. The most important thing is that the candle stands stably, has the right diameter and matches the expression of the altar and the church space. If the altar candle is too narrow, it may stand precariously. If it is too wide, it will not fit in the candlestick.

Therefore, choosing an altar candle should always start with the dimensions of the altar stand. When the diameter, height and expression match, the candle becomes a natural part of the church space and is easier to reorder from time to time.

Start by measuring the altar stand

Before choosing an altar candle, you should measure the opening in the altar stand. It is the diameter that is especially important. If the candlestick is intended for a 60 mm candle, you should choose an altar candle with a 60 mm diameter.

Also check how the candle is held in place. Some altar stands have a regular opening, while others have a spear, insert or another type of holder. The candle must stand stably and straight so that it both looks nice and can be used safely.

It is therefore not just about choosing an altar candle that looks good. First of all, it must fit the candlestick correctly.

What does ø mean on altar candles?

When you see a product name like “Altar candle ø 60 x 400 mm”, ø means diameter. The first measurement tells you how wide the candle is, while the second measurement tells you the height.

An Altar candle ø 60 x 400 mm therefore has a diameter of 60 mm and a height of 400 mm. This is a simple way to ensure that the candle fits the candlestick that the church already uses.

Choose the diameter according to the altar stick

The diameter should always be chosen according to the altar stick. This is what determines whether the candle can stand correctly and stably.

For smaller altarpieces, an Altar Candle ø 40 x 200 mm can be a good solution. For ordinary church rooms, an Altar Candle ø 60 x 200 mm or a taller altar candle with the same diameter can be relevant. For larger altarpieces and larger church rooms, an Altar Candle ø 70 x 600 mm or Altar Candle ø 80 x 800 mm can give a more striking expression.

Choose the height according to the church room

Once the diameter is in place, you can choose the height. This is not only about the candlestick, but also about the space around the altar.

Low altar candles are well suited to smaller churches, chapels, side altars and more discreet arrangements. They give a calm expression without taking up too much space. Medium-sized altar candles are well suited to regular services and classic altar candles, where the light should be visible without appearing dominant.

Tall altar candles are often best suited to larger church rooms, where there is a distance between the altar and the pews. Here, the light should be taller so that it can be seen clearly and support the central location of the altar.

Altar candles for small churches and chapels

In small churches and chapels, very large altar candles can quickly seem heavy. Here, it often makes more sense to choose narrower or lower altar candles that suit the size of the room and the altar.

An altar candle with a 40 or 50 mm diameter can be enough in many smaller arrangements. It still gives a classic and dignified expression, but without the light taking up too much attention.

Altar candles for regular church rooms

In many ordinary church rooms, altar candles with a diameter of 50 or 60 mm are an obvious choice. They provide more volume than the narrowest candles, but are still simple and balanced in expression.

Heights of around 200-400 mm are often well suited to regular church services, baptisms, weddings, confirmations and funerals. This gives the church an altar candle that works for both everyday life and holidays.

Altar candles for larger church rooms and holidays

In larger church rooms, wider and taller altar candles can be an advantage. Altar candles with a diameter of 60, 70 or 80 mm and heights of 500-800 mm give a more visible expression at the altar.

This can be particularly relevant at holidays, larger ceremonies or in church rooms where the altar is far from the congregation. Here, a taller altar candle can help create balance in the room.

Why choose altar candles made of 100% pure stearin?

Altar candles made of 100% pure stearin have a classic and traditional look that is well suited to church use. The white light has a calm and dignified effect and fits in with both older and newer church rooms.

At Egelys, altar candles are available in several sizes, so the church can choose a fixed solution that suits both the candles and the look.

Use the same size every time

For many churches, it is an advantage to use the same size altar candles over and over again. This makes reordering easier, reduces the risk of errors and ensures a uniform appearance at the altar.

It also makes the work easier for the churchwarden, staff or volunteers who are responsible for the preparation before services and holidays.

Buy altar candles at Egelys

At Egelys you will find altar candles in several diameters and heights for churches, chapels and ceremonial rooms. You will also find candle holders , oil candles and candlesticks for other church settings.

With the right altar candle, the church will have a solution that suits the candle, the room and the atmosphere desired at the altar.