What happens when the procession reaches the altar?
As the procession reaches the altar, the priest kisses the altar, in effect, greeting Christ. Jesus is here; for He said, “where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”
Why is frankincense used in church?
Frankincense/Olibanum — burned for purification, a devotional atmosphere, and spirituality and is associated with the Sun. Frankincense is associated with masculine powers. Myrrh — has similar properties to frankincense, though it is also used for healing and attraction as well.
What is a thurible used for?
thurible, also called censer, vessel used in the Christian liturgy for the burning of aromatic incense strewn on lighted coals. Censers of terra-cotta or metal were widely used in Egypt, in the ancient Middle Eastern civilizations, including the Jewish, and in the classical world.
What does kneeling symbolize in Mass?
Its purpose is to allow the worshipper to engage his whole person in acknowledging the presence of and to honor Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist. It is customary to genuflect whenever one comes into or leaves the presence of the Blessed Sacrament reserved in the Tabernacle.
Why is procession important in Mass?
procession, in Christianity, organized body of people advancing in formal or ceremonial manner as an element of Christian ritual or as a less official expression of popular piety. Another procession with a long history is that celebrated on Palm Sunday, commemorating the triumphant entrance of Christ into Jerusalem.
How do you use incense spiritually?
How to burn incense sticks properly
- Place your incense stick in an appropriate incense burner that will collect the ash as it falls. Trim the stick as necessary to ensure a proper fit.
- Light the end of the incense stick until a flame is established.
- Gently extinguish by blowing or fanning out the flame.
What does incense sticks do spiritually?
Incense is used widely in many religious practices to deepen attention, heighten senses and uplift one’s own spirit when practicing meditation. Traditionally, the passing of time was also measured by the burning of set length incense sticks.
What is inside a thurible?
The thurible consists of a metal bowl (usually with a base so it can stand upright) into which the charcoal and incense are placed, and a lid (often topped with a cross), pierced by holes to allow the fragrance from the incense to escape.