Ask the PastorQ: Why do we use incense? And when? And how do I keep my distance? A: Incense is historic in the worship history of the Church. It was used for practical reasons; the odor in a hot area of the world in a closed place like an old church, with sacrifices on the altar ... phew! Incense made the world a more pleasant place to live ... at least, in terms of the nostrils. It was used as symbolism. Read the psalms ... "let my prayers rise before you as incense..." Have you noticed how the smoke rises to the ceiling? Have you noticed that that which rises has a pleasing odor? At Augustana, we use incense on Feast Days and during the season of Easter. It is celebratory and special ... like those special treats we receive on special days of our lives. We are very blessed in having world travelers in our congregation who remember us as they travel. We actually used myrrh (see the biblical story) on Epiphany (the Day of the Magi) and we are blessed to use all sorts of sweet-smelling odors, depending on who travels where ... and who remembers Augustana as they travel! Typically Lutheran? No. Yet it certainly adds to worship service that demands all the senses ... smell, taste, touch, sight, hearing... How do I escape the impact of incense because I have asthma? Sit, stand, worship, under a ceiling fan, near a window or door. You can still appreciate the smell without getting the smoke. |
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Augustana Lutheran
Church Church Office
Hours: |
office
phone: 202-234-5315
voicemail: 202-234-5312 fax: 202-234-5724 email: office@augustanadc.info pastor@augustanadc.info theaugustanan@augustanadc.info |
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Updated:
April 20, 2004
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