Q: Regarding the 12/29 post titled Incense, I have noticed some presiders incense the crucifix each time the altar is incensed at every Sunday Mass. At times they will incense the crucifix and another image. Is this addressed in any document? Is it tradition?
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A: This is treated in GIRM 277. I’m reversing two of its paragraphs to explain: “The cross, if situated on the altar or near it, is incensed by the Priest before he incenses the altar; otherwise, he incenses it when he passes in front of it.” “Two swings of the thurible are used to incense relics and images of the Saints exposed for public veneration; this should be done, however, only at the beginning of the celebration, following the incensation of the altar.”