Someone in the wilderness from down under would like to ask a question. The solemnity of the Ascension of our Lord is being celebrated tomorrow. Being a liturgy of the Word with Communion led by a deacon, is it appropriate to have any incense? My instinct is no?
On another note, an an acolyte in the absence of a priest deacon lead benediction and incense the blessed Sacrament in the Monstrace. What happens to conclude Benediction given acolytes can’t offer a formal blessing?
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A: I’d probably be OK to use incense at the proclamation of the gospel at a celebration of distributing holy communion outside Mass, even if a deacon or lay minister presides. I say this because Holy Communion and Worship of the Eucharistic Mystery Outside Mass says that the celebration of the Word “takes place in the same manner as at Mass” (29). Otherwise, no incense at the beginning highlighting the altar and the cross, because no sacrifice is underway. And, of course, there is no consecration when incense may be used at Mass. Nor would it be appropriate to incense the Blessed Sacrament before distributing it as holy communion.
The order of service for eucharistic exposition is in the same ritual book (nos. 93-100). An instituted acolyte or deputed extraordinary lay minister of holy communion may expose the Blessed Sacrament and incense it. At the conclusion of adoration, the reposition takes place without benediction. I realize that Australia does not yet have the revised English translation of this ritual, but you can find my commentary on it in Eucharistic Reservation.