The Christmas Candle was one of the essential Christmas traditions.
Kevin and Mary wanted to make sure that their four sons remembered that there were many others less fortunate than they were. The Christmas Candle was prominently displayed in the centre of the Lounge window and burned each evening.
The sons were reminded that it was meant to be a beacon for anyone, such as a lost or weary traveller, to signify that they would find a warm welcome in their home.
Kevin made sure that the Lounge curtains were kept open, to ensure no stray sparks set them on fire. Needless to say, at Christmas time, before retiring to bed,his ritual also included extinguishing the flame, and then closing the curtains.