The faith of our fathers - Carmel Apologetics

"""380 THE FAITH OF OUR FATHERS.nacle. 1 Assuredly that cannot be improper in theftew Dispensation which God sanctioned in theOld.The lights upon our altars have both a historicaland a symbolical meaning. In the primitive dayaof the Church, Christianity was not tolerated by thePagan world The Christians were consequentlyobliged to assemble, for public worship, in the Catacombs of Rome, and other secret places. TheseCatacombs, or subterranean rooms, still exist, andare objects of deep interest to the pious strangersthat visit the Eternal city. As these hidden apartments did not admit the light of the sun, the faithful were obliged to have lights even in the openday. In commemoration of the event, the Churchhas retained the use of lights on her altars.These lighted candles have also a symbolicalmeaning. They represent our Saviour, who is thelight of the world," who enlighteneth every manthat cometh into the world," without whom weshould be wandering in darkness and in the shadowof death.They also serve to remind us to let our light soshine before men (by our good example), that theymay see our good works, and glorify our Fatherwho is in heaven."Lights are used, too, as a sign of spiritual joy.Jerome, who lived in the fourth century, remarks :St.1Exod. xxv. 31, and seq.