Catholic Answers

Incense refers to resin obtained from certain trees. Originally, the use of incense was significant as a way of masking the smell of the corpse. The priests would burn the incense over charcoal producing a sweet-smelling aroma. Perfumes may be added to thicken the smoke and make the fragrance even much better. In both the … Read more

Pallbearers play a central role in helping to carry the casket during a funeral. You may see some of them in white gloves usually worn to signify respect for the deceased or as a sign of purity. Depending on the underlying tradition of the specific catholic community, you may have both pallbearers and casket bearers. … Read more