Notes from the Pastor [3]
(Please note this is an archival post that is decades old. Msgr. Awalt passed away a number of years ago.)
Incense is composed of granules that when ignited by fire from burning charcoal give off a pleasant odor, along with smoke. The prayer that is said when it is used on solemn occasions gives insight into why it is used. “May our prayer arise to you (God) with a pleasing fragrance.” Our prayer comes from lifting up our minds and hearts to God. The rising smoke reminds us of this. The sweet fragrance tells us of God’s and the acceptance of our prayers. The use of incense has taken on the added sign of honor for what and who is incensed. It may be the corpse at funerals, the Gospel book at Mass, the host in the Blessed Sacrament, or the people at Mass. Incensing reminds us of the honor and dignity of those who are incensed. “You are a chosen race, a people set part, a royal priesthood.” Incense reminds us of who we are– the delight we give the Lord with our prayer rising to His throne.
William J. Awalt
Filed under: Awalt Papers, Uncategorized |
Blogger Priest 
Leave a Reply