When the candles are lit for the Divine Service, the ones closest to the center are lit first, moving outward from there. This is to signify that the source of our life and salvation comes from the altar. The altar not only signifies the sacrifice of Christ for our sins, but is also the place from which the Holy Sacrament is given. Christ, the Light of the world, is truly given to us here at the altar. Therefore the Light of the world truly shines forth from the altar.
Light goes forth from the altar.