Paschal trikirion

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The Paschal Trikirion is a liturgical triple-candlestick used at Easter in the Eastern Orthodox Church and Eastern Catholic Churches of the Byzantine rite.

Unlike the simpler trikirion, which is only used by a bishop, the Paschal trikirion is the right of every priest. During the Easter Vigil, the Paschal trikirion is used by the celebrating priest to bless the congregation, making the Sign of the Cross with it.

The Paschal trikirion comes in various forms. The Greek form of the Paschal trikirion generally has a flat base, so that it may be stood upright. Sometimes this base will have a icon of the Resurrection of Christ. Above this base is a vertical shaft terminating in three candleholders. The trikirion holds three candles, representing the Resurrection of Christ on the Third Day, and also representing the three persons of the Holy Trinity. Sometimes the candleholders are mounted at an angle so that the candles cross each other. Often the candles are tied together with ribbons at the point of intersection.

Another form, more commonly seen in the Slavic churches, has the three candleholders attached to a large blessing crucifix with a vertical handle. This form cannot be stood upright while the candles are lit.