Holy Spirit Candles

The young people will make candles that can be used in prayer celebrations honoring the Holy Spirit's presence in their lives.

The young people should be able to explain how the Holy Spirit was sent by Jesus and the Father to guide us and to teach us.

• Newspaper
• Double boiler
• Old candle pieces
• Small paper cups
• Pencils
• Wicks
• Paper clips
• Broken crayon pieces (optional)

• Cover work surfaces with newspaper.
• Distribute the materials to each young person.
• Place old candle pieces in a double boiler or in a metal container that is in a pan of water.
• Melt the candle pieces over medium heat until the mixture becomes liquid. Keep baking soda and a lid handy in case of fire.
• If desired, add pieces of broken crayon (one color) to the liquid candle wax.
• Fasten one end of the wick to a paper clip.
• Place a pencil across the rim of the cup. Place the end of the wick with the paper clip in the cup, with the rest of the wick wound around the pencil.
• Pour melted wax into each cup.
• Have the young people identify their cups with slips of paper. Place them in a safe place and allow them to dry for at least two hours.
• When the cups are completely dry, have the young people peel away the paper cups to reveal their candles.
• Tell the young people to save their candles for the next time the group prays together to the Holy Spirit.

It is helpful to do this activity in the cafeteria or in close proximity to a stove.

For large groups, additional adult helpers are suggested.