The Paschal candle may be lit for funerals during Lent or any other time during the year, according to Fr. Edward McNamara of Regina Apostolorum in Rome. The lighting of the Paschal candle signifies Christ's resurrection, which baptized Christians hold to be their eternal fate. They will rise with Christ in his eternal life in heaven. Catholic priests and some other Christian denominations' clergy assert that because the Church lights the Paschal candle to signify the resurrection of Christ as the light of the world, the candle should also be placed near the coffin to signify the deceased's own Passover.

On the Other: Lent is a Somber Season

The Catholic, Anglican, Eastern Orthodox and some Protestant denominations observe Lent each year. This 40-day period between Ash Wednesday and Easter is one of penitence, fasting, prayer and meditation on the Passion of Jesus. Following Lent, Christians celebrate the resurrection of Christ during Easter. Lent is a somber, solemn time of darkness. The liturgy and tone of Lent are in direct contrast to the light of Easter represented by the lit Paschal candle.

Bottom Line

Although both Catholics and Protestants observe the solemnity and importance of Lent and Easter, they also recognize the significance of burial for one of its members. A deceased Christian's spiritual hope is to be redeemed and to live on in the presence of God by the atoning death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Paschal candle represents Jesus's resurrection, the light of the world and the hope of all who die in Christ. Ultimately, the clergy decides whether to light the Paschal candle for funerals.

Source:

Eternal Word Television Network: Origin and Use of the Paschal Candle