Incense Used in Catholic Mass

When the priest swings his censer or thurible during mass, aromatic smoke dances through the church releasing the sweet smells of frankincense and myrrh. It’s a beautiful, reverent ritual, and it has a very special meaning.

In the Old Testament, incense was part of the offerings presented to God. The Lord’s offering of Himself on the Cross as a fragrant sacrifice for us was foreshadowed by these Old Testament offerings. It is also a way to thank God for all the blessings He has given. Incense is used to sanctify people and things, which gives them a holy aura.

The scent of the incense is pleasing to God, and it helps worshippers to focus more deeply on the Mass and their prayer. People with allergies can sometimes be bothered by the smell of incense, but it is usually possible to find a seat away from the area where it is being used. If it is a major problem, maybe the parish could make exceptions and reserve certain seats for those who are particularly sensitive to the smell.

Incense is a powerful symbol of the aroma of prayer that rises to the throne of God. It reminds us of the burning incense that was placed on the altar at the announcement of John the Baptist’s birth (Luke 1:18; cf. Exodus 30:10; Isaiah 61:1). The rising smoke is not an attempt to appease angry demons or to drive them away, but a sign of pure and sincere prayer to the true God.

Many altar boys practically fight for the privilege of being a thurifer (the server who carries the thurible) at Mass, because it’s considered one of the more important jobs in the church. They wear the most ornate lace surplices, and they know that carrying the incense is a symbol of their importance and responsibility. It’s a sacred job that is done with great reverence, and it’s an honor to be part of this divine dance of faith and fragrance.

The type of incense used in the Mass varies by region and country, but most Catholic churches use a blend of frankincense (gum olibanum) with myrrh, benzoin, and other resinous and aromatic ingredients. There is lots of information on the internet if you’re curious about the specifics.