Incense in Roman Catholic Churches: A Guide for Priests and Devotees

The use of incense in Roman Catholic churches is a long-standing tradition, often tied to spiritual significance and ritual. The most common types of incense used are typically Three Kings Incense (a blend of frankincense, myrrh, and benzoin) or Pontifical Incense, each with unique qualities and cultural significance. Choosing the right incense is a decision left primarily to the discretion of the priest, though the preferences of parishioners can often guide this choice.

Three Kings Incense

Three Kings Incense is a traditional blend consisting of frankincense, myrrh, and benzoin. This combination is significant as it symbolizes the gifts given to the infant Jesus by the wise men in the Christian tradition. While purveyors such as Three Kings Incense sell pre-mixed blends, purists often prefer to buy the pure resins (frankincense, myrrh, and benzoin) and mix them themselves. Doing so ensures a higher quality product, as custom mixing can cater precisely to the desired scent and aroma.

Pontifical Incense

Pontifical Incense, also known as Basilica Incense, is a specialized blend designed for use in religious ceremonies, particularly those officiated by the Pope. It is distinguished by its rich and complex fragrance, which is often centered around floral notes and is less likely to cause respiratory issues, even for those who may be sensitive to scents. While some lower-quality western incense may contain ingredients like asphalt chippings, which can cause coughing, Pontifical Incense is known to be of a higher standard.

Manufacturer Recommendations and Availability

Selecting the right incense manufacturer can be challenging, as there is a vast section of suppliers with numerous varieties and blends available. The choice largely depends on the preferences of the priest and the parishioners. At our two parishes, we stock five different mixtures, with the Cantica incense from the Holy Rood Guild being the most favored. This choice was made not only for its pleasant floral scent but also because it is one of the few that does not cause complaints from our parishioners regarding taste or breathing issues.

For those seeking the best quality, Greek or Eastern Catholic/Orthodox suppliers often provide the finest options. Greek incense, particularly from Eastern suppliers, is noted for its rich fragrance and ability to perfumes without causing coughing, as seen in some western varieties. It is worth noting that some of the cheaper western incenses may be made from materials like asphalt chippings, leading to discomfort for some users. One such example is the Prinknash Pontifical Incense, which is generally considered satisfactory but may not be as high in quality as other options.

Eastern Catholic or Orthodox suppliers, including those from Ukraine, Belarus, or Greece, are recommended for the finest and most aromatic incense. These products often come with a guarantee of quality, as they are sourced from traditional and respected manufacturers.