general instruction of the roman missal liturgy documentary series i

GENERAL INSTRUCTION OF THE ROMAN MISSAL
If incense is used, before the procession
begins, the priest puts some in the
thurible and blesses it with the Sign of
the Cross without saying anything.
121. During the procession to the altar, the
Entrance chant takes place (cf. nos. 47-
48).
122. On reaching the altar, the priest and
ministers make a profound bow.
The cross adorned with a figure of
Christ crucified and perhaps carried in
procession may be placed next to the
altar to serve as the altar cross, in which
case it ought to be the only cross used;
otherwise it is put away in a dignified
place. In addition, the candlesticks are
placed on the altar or near it. It is a
praiseworthy practice that the Book of
the Gospels be placed upon the altar.
123. The priest goes up to the altar and
venerates it with a kiss. Then, as the
occasion suggests, he incenses the
cross and the altar, walking around the
latter.
124. After doing these things, the priest goes
to the chair. Once the Entrance chant is
concluded, the priest and faithful, all
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