What Is Liturgical Incense?
Liturgical incense is a fragrant resin burned during Catholic worship as a sign of prayer rising to God (Psalm 141:2) and as a symbol of reverence for the Blessed Sacrament, the altar, the Gospel, and the faithful.
Types of Incense
- Frankincense (olibanum) — the traditional resin used in Catholic liturgy, with a warm, sweet aroma
- Myrrh — a darker resin with a more earthy scent, used during Lent and Requiem Masses
- Blended incense — combinations of frankincense with other fragrant resins for varied liturgical use
Charcoal Discs
Incense requires special liturgical charcoal discs that burn hot enough to vaporize the resin. These are self-igniting or require a flame to start. Our charcoal discs are designed for clean, even burning with minimal smoke.
Use in Liturgy
Incense is used at Solemn Mass, Benediction, processions, funerals, and blessings. The thurible (incense boat) is filled with charcoal, incense is added, and the resulting smoke is censed toward the altar, Gospel book, or congregation.
