Kim O'Leary, age 9, of Portland, Ore., for her question:

WHEN WERE CANDLES FIRST MADE?

Candles to provide light were made for the first time more than 2,000 years ago. Crude candies made of fats wrapped in husks or moss were first used before the time of Christ.

Later, candlemakers placed the wick inside a candle mold. Tallow and beeswax were melted and poured into the molds to form the finished candle.

Most of today's candles are made of stearin, which is obtained from tallow, and paraffin a mineral wax. The candles are formed by dipping the wick many times into the melted material, by pouring it into molds, or by forcing the candle material through holes and then threading the wick down the center. Wicks are made of woven Although most candles today are made by automatic machines, the art of handcrafted candles is still found in many places.

Candles add a special glow for special occasions at home. Candlelight dinners are especially popular. And don't forget how important candles are on a birthday cake!

Candles often play a part in religious customs. They are used in many churches. And some Jewish families light candles to mark the beginning of each Sabbath.