Bob Otterson (right) creates the paschal candles each year for St. Gabriel Parish in Philadelphia’s Grays Ferry section, while Ryan Doyle (left) decorates them. Standing with them at the main altar of the church is the parish’s pastor, Father Francis Foley.

By CatholicPhilly Staff • Posted April 14, 2025

When Father Francis Foley was assigned to St. Gabriel Parish in the Grays Ferry section of South Philadelphia, he was surprised to learn that the paschal candle blessed at the Easter Vigil Mass and used at all baptisms and funerals at the church was made by one parishioner and decorated by another.

Making a candle that is three inches wide by four feet high is no small task.

Bob Otterson, who grew up in the parish, went online and learned how to make candles. After making his first paschal candle, he gained more experience and now makes candles for the altar as well.

Ryan Doyle, the parish secretary, volunteered to decorate the paschal candle using a theme supplied by the pastor as her inspiration. This year’s theme is “The Glory of the Cross.”

Each year using the remnants of old paschal candles and adding some new beeswax, Otterson produces the new version.

Over the past five years his expertise has grown and, working with an online community of candle makers, he has  shared his experience and knowledge to others along their candle-making journey.

The paschal candle is one of the most important sacramental objects in the Catholic tradition because it represents Christ our Light, risen from the grave and triumphant over darkness.

What makes the paschal candle of St. Gabriel Parish particularly special is that two of the baptized faithful have put their time and talent at the service of Christ and the local community of faith.

Their efforts make the candle shine just a little bit brighter at St. Gabriel Church.