The large candle that is normally by the Baptismal Font is called the Paschal (or Easter) Candle. This candle is lit at every baptism, during the Easter season, and at every funeral liturgy. A new Easter candle is blessed each Easter Vigil and is carried into the dark church, symbolizing the Light of Christ. Here is a great explanation from the people at FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students). | Here's a video from a Church in New Jersey, as they bless the new Paschal candle and process into the Church to here the story of Salvation proclaimed. |
As the candle leads the procession into the Church, a short acclamation is sung three times - proclaiming the light of Christ as it enters the church and as all light their candles from the Paschal Candle.