Q: When we use incense, the thurifer kneels in front of the altar at the end of the Holy, Holy. The thurifer incense when the host and chalice are elevated. The thurifer remains kneeling until the great Amen. Paragraph 276 of the GIRM does not specifically indicate where the thurifer should be (in front of the altar, on the sides or another location). The question came up because it is understood that nothing should obstruct the altar particularly during the consecration. At our church, we are thinking of having the thurifer kneel in front, at the center of the altar. At the right and left of the thurifer, we want to have altar servers kneels holding candles. Would it be an issue for them to kneel in front of the altar also?
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A: Here’s a previous post: https://paulturner.org/sanctus-procession-updated/
Ensuring the faithful’s view of the altar is another good reason not to add candles to this part of the Mass.
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