This began as a tradition in Odessa, Ukraine due to the citizens feeling beleaguered by the Chernobyl disaster.  At a Russian Orthodox service in Odessa, an elderly woman pressed three rubles into the hand of a visiting U.S. minister.  She asked that he light a candle for peace upon his return home.  He and his congregation not only lit one candle, they lit 100 candles to continue spreading this light to the world. 

In 19 years, 100 candles have also left St. Mary Magdalene to help spread the message of peace throughout the world.  There are also small leaflets with the universal prayer for peace, which should accompany the candles as they leave the church.

Candles are located in the narthex by the Bell Tower.