The Christmas Candle 2013

In the enchanting village of Gladbury, a unique and heartfelt tradition unfolds every twenty-five years when an angel graces the local candlemaker. This angel blesses a special candle that bestows a miracle upon the individual who lights it, imbuing the town with a sense of wonder and expectation. However, not everyone shares this belief; Rev. David Richmond, the newly appointed pastor, grapples with skepticism regarding the powers of the candle, advocating instead for faith in God rather than in mere candle miracles.

Set in 1890, the story revolves around the Haddington family, who are deeply entwined in the candlemaking business that serves both the church and community. As Christmas approaches, Rev. Richmond delivers sermons centered on Advent themes while lighting a different candle each Sunday, aiming to persuade the townsfolk to place their faith in God rather than in the enchantment of the miraculous candle.

As the fateful time draws near, the angel mirrors the importance of the occasion by marking a particularly special candle, igniting the townspeople’s hopes. Mr. Haddington, driven by desperation, desires to use this candle to bring back his missing son, longing for his return to the quaint village. However, calamity strikes on the night when the candle is meant to be blessed. A series of unfortunate events leads to the magical candle being misplaced amidst the chaos of knocked-over prepared candles.

In a stroke of generosity, the Haddingtons distribute the other candles to various townsfolk, including a boy who cannot speak, a woman seeking companionship, a blind man, and many others, believing these individuals might also experience a miracle. Implicitly suggesting that each received the blessed candle, they spark a wave of hope within the community. However, Rev. Richmond remains steadfast in his message, urging them to place their trust in prayers to God.

In an effort to modernize the church, Reverend Richmond has new electrical lights installed, intending to symbolize a reliance on faith rather than on candles. Yet, during a church service, an unfortunate mishap occurs: the bulbs explode, leading to a fire that results in the tragic loss of life. The following Sunday, attendance plummets as the townsfolk grapple with the aftermath of the incident.

As Christmas Eve arrives, the town gathers for the service, eager to discover whether they received the blessed candle. Miracles start unfolding: the boy miraculously speaks, a man secures employment, an engaged woman has her debts forgiven, and the blind man witnesses the world anew moments before his death. These events lead the minister to believe that perhaps God has indeed heard their prayers.

Simultaneously, an urgent situation unfolds regarding pregnant Ruth, whom the pastor had summoned to Gladbury. When her wagon faces an unfortunate accident, she becomes lost. In a true display of magic, when the Christmas candle is finally lit, it radiates an extraordinary light that guides Ruth to safety. It is revealed that the Haddington’s son is the father of Ruth’s child, symbolically bringing him back to the village. In a touching resolution, even Reverend Richmond’s faith in miracles is rekindled, showcasing the profound impact of hope and belief within their tight-knit community.