For centuries, incense has played a central role in the Christian liturgy, particularly during Eucharistic celebrations. This sacred fragrance, which rises in wisps of smoke, is much more than a simple element of atmosphere: it symbolises the prayer of the faithful ascending to God, the purification of the sacred space and the spiritual offering. Let's explore in detail the types of incense used at Mass, their meanings, composition and role in liturgical rites.

The Origin of Incense in the Mass

The use of incense in religious ceremonies has its roots in the Old Testament, where incense was an essential part of the rites of the Temple in Jerusalem. The book of Exodus mentions the "Ketoret", a sacred mixture of resins and spices burnt on the altar of incense to honour God. This tradition was incorporated into the Christian liturgy, particularly after the legalisation of Christianity by the emperor Constantine in the fourth century.

Incense quickly became a symbol of devotion and solemnity, used to sanctify the altar, the Gospels and the faithful, and to mark major liturgical feasts such as Christmas, Easter or Pentecost.

The Types of Incense Used for Mass

Incense for Mass is often a blend of natural resins and other aromatic ingredients. Here are the main types of incense used:

Olibanum (Frankincense)

Olibanum, extracted from the Boswellia tree, is the incense most commonly used in churches. It produces a sweet, resinous smoke, a symbol of purity and prayer. It is particularly appreciated for its ability to create a spiritual atmosphere conducive to contemplation.

Myrrh

Often associated with frankincense, myrrh is extracted from the Commiphora tree. Its fragrance is earthier and spicier, offering a dimension of depth and gravity. It is often used at solemn masses and funeral ceremonies.

Benjoin

This resin, from Asian trees, has a sweet, vanilla scent. It is used for its soothing and purifying properties. It is sometimes added to blends to soften the more resinous aromas of frankincense and myrrh.

Copal

Originally from Mexico and South America, copal is sometimes used in Christian celebrations in connection with local traditions. It produces a dense, fragrant smoke, symbolising spiritual uplift.

Specific blends

Many churches use elaborate incense blends, combining different resins, spices and essential oils. These blends vary according to region and tradition, adding a unique dimension to each celebration.

The Spiritual Significance of Incense in the Mass

The incense used during Mass carries a strong symbolic charge, enriching the spiritual experience of the faithful:

Prayers ascending to God

The smoke from the incense, rising gently to heaven, is often interpreted as a metaphor for the prayers of the faithful ascending to God. This image is evoked in Psalm 141: "Let my prayer rise before you like incense."

Purification

Incense is used to purify the sacred space, ward off negative influences and sanctify the objects and participants in the mass. It is a symbolic gesture that prepares the heart and mind to receive the divine presence.

Spiritual offering

Burning incense is an act of offering. Its pleasant fragrance is perceived as a gift to God, a token of gratitude and devotion.

The divine presence

The enchanting scent of incense evokes the invisible but tangible presence of God in the midst of his people. It helps the faithful to immerse themselves in a spiritual atmosphere, encouraging recollection and contemplation.

The Role of Incense in the Liturgy

Incense is incorporated into several key moments of the Mass:

The incensing of the altar

At the beginning of Mass, the priest incenses the altar, the symbol of Christ's sacrifice. This gesture marks the sacred nature of the space where the Eucharist will take place.

The incensing of the Gospels

Before the proclamation of the Gospel, the Book is incensed to emphasise the importance of the Word of God.

The incensing of the offerings

During the offertory, the bread and wine offerings are incensed to sanctify them before their transformation into the body and blood of Christ.

The incensing of the faithful

On certain occasions, the priest incenses the congregation to show the respect due to the people of God.

Processions and blessings

During major liturgical feasts and processions, incense is used to create a solemn and festive atmosphere.

The Instruments Used: The Censer

The censer, or thurible, is the main tool for burning incense during mass. This liturgical object, often made of precious metal, is suspended by chains and has a perforated lid allowing the smoke to escape. The thurifer (the person in charge of the censer) handles this instrument with care to spread the smoke around the church.

The Sensory and Spiritual Impact of Incense

Incense stimulates the senses while uplifting the spirit. Its fragrance helps to focus on prayer and disconnect from everyday concerns. It creates a solemn atmosphere, reminding us of God's presence and the importance of the liturgy. For many worshippers, the scent of incense is intimately linked with memories of great celebrations, strengthening their connection with tradition and community.

Conclusion: A Timeless Tradition

The incenses used for Mass are much more than just burnt resins. They embody a rich spiritual and symbolic tradition, enriching the liturgy with their fragrance, smoke and sacred presence. Throughout the centuries, they have continued to play an essential role in the expression of the Christian faith, reminding the faithful of God's transcendence and the beauty of the liturgical mystery.