On Being a Thurifer | Saint Mark's, Seattle

Cathedral Sacristan and Head verger Michael Seewer gives a brief introduction to the role of the thurifer at Saint Mark's, and the role of incense in worship.

Saint Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral in Seattle, Washington strives to be: a house of prayer for all people, where we worship God and proclaim the reconciling Gospel of Jesus Christ; a loving, welcoming, inclusive community that nurtures faith, encourages service, and integrates social and environmental justice into our lives; a sacred gathering place for the Diocese of Olympia and the broader community in times of crisis, sorrow, and celebration.

Saint Mark's Cathedral is part of the Episcopal Church, and as a cathedral, serves as the seat of the Bishop of the Diocese of Olympia.

[laudesimperiales]

What a pleasant person – and very good explanations as well!

[Modeltnick]

I’m discussing being a Thurifer with my rector. I’m undecided but it would be a prestigious ministry. Years ago the coals were kindled in a small grille outside the church until red hot. Wonderful detailed information!

[chriskurth]

Thank you for your intelligent, inviting explanation on the role of the Thurifer in worship at Saint Mark's. As a newbie thurifer at Grace Episcopal Church in a suburb of Saint Louis, Missouri I was wondering if there was any liturgical significance in the direction that the three swings took when you censed the congregation. It seemed that you did it once to the right, once to the left, and then once to the center. Again, thank you and God Bless You Mr. Seewer for your ministry at Saint Mark's.

[rachelleanonymous]

Hi, I'm wondering - do all your services use incense like this? Or do you have some services without incense for those with allergies? (I find the use of incense fascinating but unfortunately my body rejects it 😛)

[danielobrien]

I know centripetal forces keep the coal towards the center of the thurible but are you ever concerned that the soldering can break off somewhere sending the device flying and potentially injuring a congregation member?

[marioromano]

A Bar BQ Lighter would work Just as Good with a 6" Altar Candle Stub Ye=ou Light Then Use tongs to hold Charcoal over Flame to Light... then Placing it in Thurible Dished sde Up ro Hold Incense As A Sacristan I' Ive done this for Funerals for 13 Years

[marioromano]

Not reallly a Good Idea to swing Thuriblr 360 Deg. especially with inexperienced Thurifer..in which Coals or incense to come out onto Them or Church Carpets & burn them or the Thurifer themselves, , , I've eard of a Deacon doing that on Holy thursday Mass!

[nacanielinalumisa]

Is this church an Anglican church or what

[hien]

That look like the thurible in Roblox
The game that I play