There are multiple reasons for Candles in Churches and various accesseories used to display these candles. In the Western Rites of Christian Churches (Roman Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, etc.), Advent is a period of preparation, extending over four Sundays, before Christmas. To celebrate each Sunday during this period an Advent Candle is lighted during each Sunday Mass or Service. The word Advent comes from the Latin advenio, "to come to," and refers to the coming of Christ. This refers, first of all, to our celebration of Christ's birth at Christmas; and second, to the coming of Christ in our lives through grace.
Altar candles are candles set on or near altars for religious ceremonies. Various denominations have regulations or traditions regarding the number and type of candles used, and when they are lit or extinguished during the services. For safety, altar candles are secured in some type of holder. To prevent wax from dripping, candles are often topped by a "candle follower", a short tube made of brass, glass or some other non-flammable material.
The Paschal candle is a large, white candle used during liturgy in the Western Rites of Christianity (Roman Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, etc.). A new Paschal candle is blessed and lit every year at Easter, and is used throughout the Easter season and then throughout the year on special occasions, such as baptisms and funerals.