How are vigil lights typically utilized during a funeral service in Roman Catholic practice?

Vigil lights hold significant meaning in Roman Catholic practice, particularly during funeral services. They are lit to symbolize the deceased's eternal light, representing the belief in the resurrection and the continuation of life beyond death. The light serves as a reminder of Christ, the Light of the World, and reflects the hope of eternal life for the deceased.

While vigil lights may contribute to the overall ambiance or may be placed in specific locations around the church, their primary purpose is deeply rooted in their symbolic representation of the deceased's spirit and the faith in life after death. This understanding aligns perfectly with the core beliefs of the Roman Catholic Church concerning the afterlife, making this choice the most relevant in the context of funeral practices.