A type of censer called a thurbile is used to contain incense as it is burned. During the liturgy, the thurifer, a server carrying the thurible, approaches the minister conducting the service, often with a boat bearer carrying the boat, a receptacle which contains the unburned incense. Incense is taken from the boat and, after being blessed with a prayer, is spooned on red-hot coals. The thurible is then swung toward the people or objects being reverenced. In the Latin Rite, the thurible is swung in groups of three to represent the Persons of the Holy Trinity. The number of swings depends on the sanctity of the object being reverenced and whether the person is alive or dead, clergy or laity and a cleric’s rank within the hierarchy. Traditionally, incense can be used to reverence the bread and wine offered for the Eucharist, the consecrated Eucharist, the Gospel during its proclamation, the crucifix, icons in Eastern Churches, clergy, the congregation, the Paschal candle and the body of the deceased person during a funeral. It is also used during processions. Additionally, five grains of blessed incense are placed in the Paschal Candle as a reminder of Christ’s wounds.
Incense is an aromatic substance made from plant materials that, when burned, releases fragrant smoke. It has been used by many cultures and religions throughout the world, both for its religious symbolism and for various health reasons. Incense has been used in Christian worship since antiquity. It has been particularly used in Eastern Christian churches, Roman and Eastern Catholic Churches, Old Catholic Church and some Anglican and Lutheran Churches. The practice is rooted in the traditions of Judaism in the time of the Second Temple. Its use is interpreted as both a form of sacrificial offering to God and as a symbol of the prayers of the faithful rising to heaven. It is also used as a form of purification. The use of incense during liturgies is intended to remind the faithful of the sweet smell of the presence of God and that our worship transcends the gap between heaven and earth.
A type of censer called a thurbile is used to contain incense as it is burned. During the liturgy, the thurifer, a server carrying the thurible, approaches the minister conducting the service, often with a boat bearer carrying the boat, a receptacle which contains the unburned incense. Incense is taken from the boat and, after being blessed with a prayer, is spooned on red-hot coals. The thurible is then swung toward the people or objects being reverenced. In the Latin Rite, the thurible is swung in groups of three to represent the Persons of the Holy Trinity. The number of swings depends on the sanctity of the object being reverenced and whether the person is alive or dead, clergy or laity and a cleric’s rank within the hierarchy. Traditionally, incense can be used to reverence the bread and wine offered for the Eucharist, the consecrated Eucharist, the Gospel during its proclamation, the crucifix, icons in Eastern Churches, clergy, the congregation, the Paschal candle and the body of the deceased person during a funeral. It is also used during processions. Additionally, five grains of blessed incense are placed in the Paschal Candle as a reminder of Christ’s wounds. |
ABOUTSt. Peter Parish is a Roman Catholic faith community. The purpose of this blog is to help parishioners and community members come to a better understanding of our Catholic faith and traditions. Spotify Top Christian TracksArchives
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