Q: We have a funeral on Saturday where a visiting archbishop will be the celebrant. Should I put 7 candles out? I was planning on it, but staff worry that it will seem like we are elevating the deceased (since we don’t add candles for other funerals). I realize the candles in this instance, are connected to the Archbishop rather than the deceased, but wanted to get your thoughts. Should I just leave out our normal two and see if the emcee says something? I did notice that the GIRM (117) says “Diocesan Bishop” when it talks about having 7 candles. With it being the Archbishop, does it still apply? Thanks for any help!
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A: I think “Diocesan Bishop” makes a difference. Even the Ceremonial of Bishops mentions 7 candles but allows 2 (125 and 128), and it’s in the chapter on the stational mass of the Diocesan Bishop. You don’t need 7 candles on this occasion.