What candle, lit during Easter worship, represents the light of the risen Christ?

The candle lit during Easter worship to represent the light of the risen Christ is the Paschal candle.

Also called the Easter candle, it is a large candle used in Western Christian churches during the Easter season. The priest or minister commonly marks it with a cross, the Greek letters Alpha and Omega, and the current year before lighting it during the Easter Vigil.

The flame symbolizes Christ as light overcoming darkness and death. From the Paschal candle, worshippers may light smaller candles, creating a visual sign that the Easter proclamation is being shared through the congregation. The candle may remain near the altar or baptismal font throughout the Easter season.

After Pentecost, many churches continue using it at baptisms and funerals. Its use and design differ among denominations, so not every Christian community follows the same ceremony. “Paschal” comes from Pascha, a word related to the Christian observance of Easter.