The smoke from the incense is used to show reverence toward the Gospel book, the presiding celebrant, the gifts of bread and wine offered at Mass, the altar, cross, the Easter Candle and the body ...

Whether the fascination fades with the smoke or lingers long after a new pontiff is announced, the conclave’s moment in the algorithmic spotlight says something about what captivates us now.

VATICAN CITY — Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected pope, the first time an American will lead the Roman Catholic Church. He chose the name Pope Leo XIV. The 69-year-old new pontiff appeared ...

As a fireworks expert tests the Vatican's contemporary system for "holy smoke," Catholic cardinals mull their divergent priorities for Pope Francis' successor.

In Catholicism, smoke also plays a central role in ritual through the burning of incense. The fragrant plumes symbolise prayer rising to God and are used to bless sacred objects, people, and ...

Reading Holy Smoke: Censers Across Cultures, I am reminded of agarbatti all over again. Edited by Beate Fricke, the book explores the myriad roles of incense and its marvelous vessels in ...

Catholic incense Catholics utilise smoke in many rituals in the form of incense. Incense (from the Latin incendere, meaning “to burn”) signifies prayer, sacrifice and reverence for people and objects.

Incense (from the Latin incendere, meaning “to burn”) signifies prayer, sacrifice and reverence for people and objects. This fragrant smoke symbolises the prayer of the assembly rising up to God.