Pomp and Circumstance

Dear Sr. Edwina: I am a convert to the Catholic faith. One thing that has always baffled me is the pomp and circumstance. From the choice of architecture, the placement of the baptismal font, the selection of music, the ringing of bells, and the times we use incense; the importance of these things seem to be magnified in a Catholic Church. Can you explain?

Concerned Catholic: While the positioning and timing of the things you mentioned are of utmost importance to the liturgical aspect of the Mass, they can become complicated to explain, let me try to simplify.
Visual art is for the eyes

Music is art for the ears

Perfume & incense are art for the nose

All art forms should be used in service to God!
As a child, Sr. Edwina can remember using her fingers to trace the wooden cross at the end of each pew, relishing the sound of bells, seeing the story of Jesus unfold through stained glass picture windows, and knowing that the sprinkling of baptismal water and the smell of incense meant something special was happening. Those lovely memories prompt me to encourage you to take a step back and experience the beauty of Mass through your senses. The richness of our faith is a most precious gift.