the things done are out of place.

_On the contrary,_ The custom of the Church stands for these things:
and the Church cannot err, since she is taught by the Holy Ghost.

_I answer that,_ As was said above (Q. 60, A. 6), there is a twofold
manner of signification in the sacraments, by words, and by actions,
in order that the signification may thus be more perfect. Now, in the
celebration of this sacrament words are used to signify things
pertaining to Christ's Passion, which is represented in this
sacrament; or again, pertaining to Christ's mystical body, which is
signified therein; and again, things pertaining to the use of this
sacrament, which use ought to be devout and reverent. Consequently,
in the celebration of this mystery some things are done in order to
represent Christ's Passion, or the disposing of His mystical body,
and some others are done which pertain to the devotion and reverence
due to this sacrament.

Reply Obj. 1: The washing of the hands is done in the celebration of
mass out of reverence for this sacrament; and this for two reasons:
first, because we are not wont to handle precious objects except the
hands be washed; hence it seems indecent for anyone to approach so
great a sacrament with hands that are, even literally, unclean.
Secondly, on account of its signification, because, as Dionysius says
(Eccl. Hier. iii), the washing of the extremities of the limbs
denotes cleansing from even the smallest sins, according to John
13:10: "He that is washed needeth not but to wash his feet." And such
cleansing is required of him who approaches this sacrament; and this
is denoted by the confession which is made before the "Introit" of
the mass. Moreover, this was signified by the washing of the priests
under the Old Law, as Dionysius says (Eccl. Hier. iii). However, the
Church observes this ceremony, not because it was prescribed under
the Old Law, but because it is becoming in itself, and therefore
instituted by the Church. Hence it is not observed in the same way as
it was then: because the washing of the feet is omitted, and the
washing of the hands is observed; for this can be done more readily,
and suffices for denoting perfect cleansing. For, since the hand is
the "organ of organs" (De Anima iii), all works are attributed to the
hands: hence it is said in Ps. 25:6: "I will wash my hands among the
innocent."

Reply Obj. 2: We use incense, not as commanded by a ceremonial
precept of the Law, but as