Lighting a candle is a prayer:

When we have gone, it stays alight,
Kindling in the hearts and minds
of others the prayers
we have already offered for them 
and for others, for the sad,
the sick, and the suffering - 
and prayers of thankfulness too. 

Lighting a candle is a parable:

burning itself out,
it gives light to others.
Christ gave Himself for others.
He calls us to give ourselves. 

Lighting a candle is a symbol:

of love and hope,
of light and warmth. 
Our world needs them all. 

Prayer used in Salisbury Cathedral