Smells and Bells

" The acts of lighting incense and the anointment of the priests are also depicted through highly evocative images of distinction and exclusivity." (Green, 69) In this photo, there are three people wearing white robes. Two are priests, who went through years of schooling and religious teachings, who worked hard to be called priests-- pillars of our community. The other person is me. We are not equal in our knowledge, or religious commitments, but we are dressed the same. I have been promoted to their level for one thing: I'm handling the incense.  In my hometown church in Connecticut, this photo was taken in April 2025, on the Saturday of the Great Easter Vigil, the first official service celebrating the return of Jesus. It's held around sunset, and usually also includes a handful of baptisms. I was raised in this church, Trinity Episcopal in Torrington. The two priests behind me in the photo have been priests for me in different times in my life, and are still import...

Hearing is one of the senses that is very important to daily rituals of the church. Confession: When an individual confesses their sins to a priest privately. The priest can not repeat what that individual said to anyone. It is like a cleansing of the soul. The priest can not repeat what has been said to anyone. As you say your sins out loud you are being washed clean again. Music: During every mass songs are chosen for specific times. We sing as the priest and the alter servers go down the aisle and as they leave. We sing when we are receiving communion. We also sing certain prayers or hymns during mass. Marriage vows: The vows of marriage in the Catholic Church are supposed to be sacred. If a couple end up getting divorced the church wont see them as ever being married. When the vows are said they are said in front of God. You are making a vow and a promise to God and the people watching. You will cherish and be loyal to this person standing across from you Confirmation: ...