What is the importance of incense at a Catholic mass?

What is the importance of incense at a Catholic mass? I am not Catholic, but I’ve been going to mass a lot with my boyfriend who is - he doesn’t really know much about the incense ritual either and we were wondering why it is done. Anyone know more?

Answer #1

I don’t think it was to ward off evil spirits. In the Jewish temple and in the early style of Christian worship, it was used to symbolise prayers going up to heaven (the smoke from the incense went up, carrying a lovely smell, and the prayers went ‘up’ too and were lovely to God).

In the Bible, generous behaviour is described as being ‘a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God’ and I think this is what incense is meant to be, too.

Answer #2

I was wrong. Yes You are right Flossheal. I had forgotten the real reason.

Answer #3

Maybe it stinks in there. ;)

Answer #4

In olden times it was meant to ward off evil spirits. Maybe even those horns on your head. LOL

Answer #5

That’s really nice of you to agree with me, mamk! Not many people would bother to correct themselves. Thanks.

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