From The Pastor: 9-16-2018

Let me continue from last week* with some more liturgical guidelines.

Always remember to genuflect when you are entering the pew.  Genuflect literally means  “to bend the knee” and it is an act of reverence to Jesus present in the Blessed Sacrament.  If you really cannot genuflect because of physical issues, make a profound bow (from the waist) as a sign of reverence.  Teach your children how to genuflect as well.

We have aids (hymnals) that lead us through the Mass and provide the readings from Sacred Scripture.  These can always be helpful but it is also good to learn how to truly listen at Mass.  If, for example, we are using a Common Psalm (as we did throughout the summer), it is better to listen to the cantor and concentrate than flip through the book trying to find it in print. Most of the time, we miss the whole Responsorial Psalm. 

During the Creed, we are all called to make a profound bow at the words “and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary and became man.”  (We genuflect on the Solemnity of the Annunciation and Christmas!)

Here at Saint Joan of Arc, we receive Holy Communion starting from the back.  Start up for Communion as soon as the priest receives Holy Communion.  Always be aware of people around you and show kindness!

Take time to pray after receiving Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.  Do not leave immediately after receiving.  While there may a real reason to leave Church occasionally before Mass is ended, try to stay until the final blessing (at least) and even for the final hymn.

Next week: Reminders on how to receive Communion!

Father Al

*To read Father's column about Liturgical Guidelines, please click here