The candle which is placed between the casket and the altar during a Roman Catholic funeral mass is the?

The Paschal candle is a significant symbol in the Roman Catholic tradition, especially during funerals. It represents the light of Christ and the resurrection, embodying hope and the promise of eternal life. Traditionally, the Paschal candle is lit during the Easter Vigil and used throughout the liturgical year, particularly during special occasions like baptisms and funerals.

In the context of a funeral mass, placing the Paschal candle between the casket and the altar serves to honor the deceased while also symbolizing the light of the Gospel, which Christians believe will lead the deceased to eternal life. This custom highlights the interconnection between Christ’s death and resurrection and the deceased’s journey to everlasting life.

Other types of candles mentioned, such as sacred candles or scapular candles, do not have the same specific association with funerals within Roman Catholic liturgy. The sepulcher candle, while related to burial practices, does not hold the centrality and significance at the altar during a funeral mass that the Paschal candle does. Therefore, the Paschal candle is rightly acknowledged as the appropriate choice in the context of a Roman Catholic funeral mass.