Incense & Censers

Incense is a substance burned to produce a fragrant scent. It is made by powdering frankincense with aromatic materials, usually plant-based, such as jasmine, rose, or lilac. The burning incense serves as an aid in prayer.

Incense is placed inside a vessel called a censer on burning charcoal. The smoke of the burning incense symbolizes the prayers that are offered and rise to heaven. The censer often has four chains representing the Four Evangelists and twelve bells representing the Twelve Disciples of Christ.