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The Sanctuary Lamp

When entering a Catholic church, one of the most distinctive elements you will see is a sanctuary lamp. The word "sanctuary" is generally defined as a space that is "holy," "sacred," or "set apart." In a Catholic church, it is where Mass and other divine services are celebrated and where, most of the time, consecrated hosts are reserved in a tabernacle (though tabernacles are sometimes found in their own separate chapel, especially in large cathedral churches).
 
In order to alert the faithful that Jesus in His Real Presence (Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity) are present in the tabernacle, Church law (#940) specifies that a sanctuary lamp is to be placed near it and remain lit as long as the Blessed Sacrament is reserved there.   
 
Normally these lamps are enclosed in a red or clear glass container that may be hung or placed on a stand. It should be distinguished from other votive lights that burn before the images of the saints. The lamp is to be fueled by oil or wax. An electric light is prohibited. Only one lamp is required but additional lamps are sometimes used.
 
The tradition of having a lit lamp reminding people of the presence of God is found in the Old Testament wherein God commanded that lamps filled with the purest oil of olives should always burn in the Tabernacle of the Dwelling outside the veil. The lamps were to be maintained “from evening to morning” by Aaron and his sons.  (Ex 27:20, 21).