The rites curriculum places the Raising of Morning Incense before the Offering of the Lamb, the Liturgy of the Word, and the Liturgy of the Faithful. That order explains why Sunday can feel like it begins before the Eucharistic Liturgy itself. The Church is already praying, giving thanks, and interceding.
My voice You shall hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning I will direct it to You, and I will look up.
What happens during Matins
Matins includes prayer, incense, litanies, praise, and readings according to the day. The priest and deacons serve at the altar while the people respond in prayer. The Church asks for mercy, gives thanks, and prepares for the service that follows.
The morning incense also teaches continuity. The Church approaches the altar through thanksgiving, remembrance of the needs of the Church and the world, the Gospel, and the absolution before the Eucharistic movement continues.
Why Matins matters
Matins matters because the morning belongs to God before it belongs to any other work. In parish worship, it also gives the faithful a way to pass from daily life into the Liturgy. The incense, litanies, responses, and Gospel prepare the Church to offer the Lamb and receive Christ.