Candles are lit on Shabbat for many reasons:
To enjoy the oneg, the delight of Shabbat by literally seeing the festive meal and the symbols of the day. Light will also avoid a fall that would dampen the joy.
Light is a symbol of Shalom, peace, and Shabbat is a time of peace and rest.
To fulfill the two-fold mitzvah of shamor (to keep or guard) and Zachor (to remember) Shabbat. These two words were said simultaneously by the Holy One at the beginning of the fourth commandment. (zachor is in Exodus and shamor is in Deuteronomy)
To re-create the light of creation to remind us that Hashem's first creation was light and also that He rested on the seventh day.
Candles are lit 18 minutes before sunset. To find the time in your area, utilize the information from the link below.
The ritual of lighting the candles involves:
1. The actual lighting of the candles
2. Drawing the hands around the candles and toward the face from one to seven times (three is most common)
3. Covering the eyes with the hands
4. Saying the blessing
Barukh atah Adonai Eloheinu melekh ha’olam asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu l’hadlik ner shel shabbat.
Blessed are You, Lord our God, Ruler of the Universe, who has sanctified us with commandments, and commanded us to light Shabbat candles.
TO FIND CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES:
then go to "candle lighting" and find "Poland"
You will see "Shabbat Times Warsaw, Mazovia, Poland"
You can also print a monthly calendar for convenience