Exploring the Significance of Incense in Catholic Worship

Catholics use incense for several reasons, which are deeply rooted in their religious traditions and rituals. The use of incense in Catholicism can be traced back to the early days of Christianity and has its origins in ancient Jewish worship practices. The main reasons for using incense in Catholic ceremonies are:

 

Symbolism:

Incense symbolizes the prayers of the faithful rising to heaven. As the smoke rises, it represents the prayers and intentions of the worshippers ascending to God. This symbolism is drawn from Psalm 141:2, which says, "Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice."

Sanctification and purification:

Incense is used to sanctify and purify sacred spaces, objects, and people. During the liturgy, a priest or deacon will often use incense to bless the altar, the Book of the Gospels, the bread and wine, and the congregation. The use of incense signifies that the space and the people in it are set apart for worship and divine service.

Connection to biblical tradition:

The use of incense in Catholic worship connects the Church to its biblical roots. Incense was used extensively in the Old Testament for worship in the Tabernacle and the Temple. It was also part of the gifts that the Magi offered to the baby Jesus, symbolizing his divinity.

Reverence and honor:

Incense is used to show reverence and honor to God, the Blessed Sacrament (the consecrated bread and wine), and the relics of saints. When incense is used during a liturgical procession or in front of the Blessed Sacrament, it emphasizes the sacredness and solemnity of the occasion.

 

Sensory experience:

The use of incense engages the senses and enhances the worship experience. The rich aroma of incense helps create a prayerful and contemplative atmosphere, inviting the faithful to focus more intently on their prayers and the liturgy.

Overall, the use of incense in Catholic worship is a multifaceted practice that serves to connect the faithful with their spiritual heritage, enhance the liturgical experience, and express reverence and devotion to God.

Frankincense in Catholicism 

Frankincense is a type of incense that has been used for centuries in religious ceremonies and rituals, including those within the Catholic Church. It is obtained from the resin of the Boswellia tree, which is native to the Arabian Peninsula and northeastern Africa. Frankincense has a long history of use in Christianity and other religions due to its various symbolic and practical roles. Its connection to Catholicism and the use of incense can be explained as follows:

 

Biblical significance

Frankincense is mentioned several times in the Bible. One of the most well-known instances is in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 2:11), where the Magi, or the Three Wise Men, present gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the baby Jesus. Frankincense, in this context, symbolizes Jesus' divine nature, as it was an incense typically used in religious and spiritual contexts.

Old Testament tradition

The use of frankincense in Catholic worship connects the Church to its Old Testament roots. Frankincense was an important component of the incense used in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple of Jerusalem. According to Exodus 30:34-38, God commanded Moses to create a special blend of incense, including frankincense, to be used exclusively for sacred purposes.

Symbolism

Similar to other types of incense, the use of frankincense in Catholic liturgy symbolizes the prayers of the faithful rising to heaven. The sweet and distinctive aroma of frankincense is believed to create an atmosphere conducive to prayer, meditation, and contemplation, helping the worshippers feel a stronger connection to the divine.

Liturgical use:

Frankincense is often used during the celebration of the Mass and other Catholic rites. It is used to purify and sanctify the altar, the gifts of bread and wine, and the congregation. The burning of frankincense also serves to honor and reverence the Blessed Sacrament, the relics of saints, and other sacred objects.

 

In conclusion, frankincense has a strong connection to the use of incense in Catholic worship due to its biblical significance, historical roots in Old Testament traditions, and its symbolic and practical roles in enhancing the liturgical experience and expressing reverence for the divine. 

Frankincense Incense 100gm

Regular price$15.90
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Authentic and 100% natural. This incense is made from real frankincense ground into a powder form combined with charcoal. The result is an aroma that is reminiscent of churches, mosques and places of worship that traditionally burn frankincense (loban) over hot coals. Each box contains 100gm which is approximately 65 sticks.

* Each Stick burns for 1 hour 

Natural Choice Way

100% Plant Based, Paraben-Free, Phthalate-Free, Dye-Free, Cruelty-Free