Having grown up in a Catholic family, I have been exposed to the various traditions and customs of Catholicism. Since my parents and grandparents were devout Catholics, I have gotten used to weekly masses, novena masses, prayer candles and sacrifices. One of my earliest memories were accompanying my grandmother to church and watching her light votive candles. These votives were usually placed beside an image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Jesus Christ and Saints. I was told to drop a donation, light a candle and pray for something that I wanted.

Today, votives are no longer just used in churches. Votives come in different colors and scents and are commonly used to decorate homes. Votives are bigger than tea lights; they are usually about 2 inches in height and at least an inch in width. They last longer than tea light candles and look beautiful when placed in chic round glass candle holders. Votives can light up a corner of a room and provide a glow that could last for over an hour.