Given the reference in Revelation, we see that early Christians were familiar with using incense and continued the sacred practice, as mentioned in fifth-century liturgies, including incensing the Gospel; by the 11th century, it was used at the offertory at the Magnificat during vespers around the 13th century and during Benediction of the ...

Incense was also used at the Benedictus and Magnificat during Lauds and Vespers about the 13th century, and for the exposition and benediction of the Blessed Sacrament about the 14th century. Gradually, its usage was extended to the incensing of the celebrant and assisting clergy.

Before looking at the whys and wherefores of incense used in the Church today, the faithful should realize its use was a practice instituted by God himself. He commanded Moses, “You shall make an altar on which to offer incense; Aaron shall offer fragrant incense on it” every morning and evening (Exodus 30:7-8).

Incense was also used at the Benedictus and Magnificat during Lauds and Vespers about the 13th century, and for the exposition and benediction of the Blessed Sacrament about the 14th century. Gradually, its usage was extended to the incensing of the celebrant and assisting clergy.

Incense was also used at the Benedictus and Magnificat during Lauds and Vespers about the 13th century, and for the exposition and benediction of the Blessed Sacrament about the 14th century. Gradually, its usage was extended to the incensing of the celebrant and assisting clergy.