In some churches, the institutional memory is scented with candles, oils and the heady aromas of frankincense and myrrh. But they're having to make changes because the heavy scents can cause people with perfume allergies to sneeze, itch and even experience trouble breathing.
At the Religious Supply Center in Davenport, Iowa, owner Mark Gould says he's noticed more and more requests from pastors for subtle incense, something with less potency.
"We actually get calls where they ask for smokeless incense," he said, "Which is kind of a funny one, if you think about it, because it doesn't exist. We do, however, have something where you can still visualize the smoke but it's not - and I don't know if `offensive' is the word - it's not as strong a smell."
Baltimore's Beth Am Synagogue publishes a note every week in the Shabbat program asking people to hold off on cologne, perfume and aftershave. It also postS notes reminding people in the men's and women's restrooms. If someone should forget, it often falls on Executive Director Henry Feller to provide a tap on the shoulder.
"As gently and kindly as I can, I'll mention to them that we have some people who are highly allergic," Feller said.
The synagogue only orders non-fragrant or minimally fragrant flowers for the bema, and, after an unfortunate incident with citrus spray, keeps its cleaning products scent-free as well. Feller has gotten many queries from other congregants on how Beth Am drafted its policy.
At New Hope Lutheran, Miller-Zurell couldn't have been more surprised last Easter to find himself - after years with no problems - having a bad reaction to the lilies, dandelions and hydrangeas decorating the church.
"My voice started to go," he said. "It's very colorful, but my goodness, it can be overwhelming,"
Now the church will be more careful with the flowers - they already did away with the natural pine boughs and trees for Christmas.
"Yes, I know," he said glumly. "I grew up with the smell. And you know smell is one of the most wonderful senses for bringing back memories."
New Hope member Pat Wheeler, whose 14-year-old daughter, Sarah, has celiac disease, said in the seven years since the diagnosis, the disease has become better known and more accepted.
And she said the church's understanding and flexibility haVE been "fantastic."
"It's very important to [Sarah]," Wheeler said. "She needs to do what everyone else does and practice her faith."
jill.rosen@baltsun.com
