Michael Brooks
Kneeling during Mass has been a traditional practice in Catholic liturgy for centuries. However, in recent times, there has been a growing movement to discourage kneeling in Catholic churches, with some advocating for standing during prayers and celebrations. This has sparked resistance from those who view kneeling as a profound act of reverence and submission to God and Jesus Christ, who knelt during his own prayers. The act of kneeling is also mentioned in the Bible over thirty times, further reinforcing its significance in Catholic tradition. While some Catholics may struggle with kneeling due to physical limitations or pain, they often express their desire to continue the practice. The debate surrounding kneeling in Catholic liturgy highlights the tension between progressive ideals and traditional practices within the Church.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Genuflection | Involves bending one knee to the ground |
| Kneeling | Involves bending both knees |
| Genuflection in Catholic Church | Mandatory when passing in front of the Blessed Sacrament or during Consecration in the Mass |
| Genuflection in Liturgy | Excludes genuflecting to a bishop |
| Genuflection in Communion | Genuflection on one knee before entering and leaving |
| Kneeling during Mass | Done traditionally for centuries |
| Kneeling during Mass | Should be done when Jesus is made present on the altar |
| Kneeling during Mass | Should be done at the consecration |
| Kneeling during Mass | Should be done at the Prayer of Consecration |
| Kneeling during Mass | Should be done at the beginning of the liturgy |
| Kneeling during Mass | Should be done when the deacon invites all to kneel |
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What You'll Learn
Kneeling during Mass
Kneeling has been a traditional practice during Catholic Mass for centuries. Both the Ordinary Form and the Extraordinary Form of the Mass have rules that govern bodily positions during the Mass. While standing is considered "more communal" than kneeling, kneeling is still widely practised in the Catholic Church.
Kneeling is an act of submission and surrender, indicating by bodily attitude a total submission of one's mind and heart to the true Presence of Christ. It is an exterior manifestation of the reverence inspired by His Presence. In the past, the faithful would kneel upon entering the church and during prayers of the liturgy. Today, it is common to kneel during the Prayer of Consecration, when Jesus is made present on the altar. The practice of kneeling during the Consecration was introduced during the Middle Ages and is related to the Elevation, which also originated during this period.
Genuflection, or bending one knee to the ground, is also common during the Catholic Mass. It is a gesture of deep respect and adoration for a superior, in this case, Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist. Genuflection is mandatory in some situations, such as when passing in front of the Blessed Sacrament or during the Consecration in the Mass. The requirement to genuflect on both knees before the Blessed Sacrament was altered in 1973, and now genuflection on one knee is considered sufficient.
While kneeling and genuflection are still widely practised in the Catholic Church, there is a movement to eliminate these traditions. Some liturgical "experts" argue that kneeling detracts from the beauty and reverence of the Mass, and that some people slouch when they kneel, making it an unsightly spectacle. However, others argue that kneeling is an important part of spiritual heritage and should be preserved.
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Genuflection vs. kneeling
Genuflection and kneeling are two different postures that carry distinct meanings and are performed in different situations.
Genuflection
Genuflection is the act of bending one knee to the ground, with the other leg remaining upright. This gesture, derived from the Latin word "genuflectio", has long been associated with showing deep respect to a superior, such as a king or a dignitary. In a Christian context, genuflection is commonly performed in the Anglican, Lutheran, Roman Catholic, and Western Rite Orthodox traditions. Within the Catholic Church, genuflection is specifically associated with reverence for the Blessed Sacrament. When the Sacrament is not exposed but veiled or in a tabernacle, individuals genuflect on their right knee as a sign of adoration. This practice was formally approved by the Roman Catholic Church in the early 16th century.
Kneeling
Kneeling, on the other hand, typically involves bending both knees and touching them to the ground. In a religious context, kneeling is often associated with prayer and worship. Christians of various denominations, including Catholics, may kneel during prayer as a sign of dependence, humility, and penitence. In the Catholic Church, kneeling is also associated with receiving Holy Communion. While standing and bowing have been established as the norm for receiving Communion, kneeling continues to be mentioned as an acceptable alternative. Some individuals choose to kneel during this sacrament as a personal expression of reverence and devotion.
Comparison
While both genuflection and kneeling are forms of reverence, they differ in their specific contexts and meanings. Genuflection is primarily associated with showing respect to the Blessed Sacrament, while kneeling may be more commonly associated with prayer and worship. Additionally, the physical postures differ, with genuflection involving one knee and kneeling involving both knees. In terms of liturgical norms, genuflection is often mandatory in certain situations within the Catholic Church, such as when passing in front of the Blessed Sacrament. Kneeling, while acceptable, may be seen as a personal choice or variation among different parishes and individuals.
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Reasons for not kneeling
There are several reasons why some Catholics may choose not to kneel at the altar during Mass. Here are some of the reasons:
Historical and Ecumenical Reasons
Kneeling during Mass is a medieval innovation, introduced during feudal times as a gesture of obeisance to an overlord or prince. The early Church and Eastern churches, including most Protestants, did not adopt this practice. Therefore, some argue that Catholics should discontinue the custom of kneeling during Mass to maintain consistency with these other Christian traditions.
Theology of the Eucharist
The Second Vatican Council brought about a significant change in the theology of the Eucharist. This led to the elimination of kneeling from public worship in the Catholic Church's liturgical instructions. The US bishops, in amending the General Instruction of the Roman Missal in 1969, restricted kneeling only to the Eucharistic Prayer. As a result, Catholics were expected to stand during other parts of the Mass.
Church Unity
The US Church is unique in retaining the practice of kneeling during Mass. To promote unity within the global Catholic Church, some argue for the discontinuation of kneeling during Mass, aligning with the practices of other Catholic churches worldwide.
Liturgical Arguments
Some liturgists argue that standing during the Eucharistic prayer and before and after receiving Holy Communion is more appropriate than kneeling. They suggest that kneeling is a private and penitential posture, while the Eucharist is a communal and joyful occasion. Therefore, standing fosters a sense of community and participation during the celebration.
Practical Considerations
In some Catholic churches with pews, kneeling may be impractical or rarely noticed. Worshippers may be prevented from kneeling due to cramped seating arrangements or other logistical challenges. In such cases, standing or sitting may be more feasible options during different parts of the Mass.
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The history of kneeling
Kneeling has been a significant aspect of Catholic tradition and culture for centuries. The act of bending a knee, known as genuflection or genuflexion, has been a common gesture of deep respect and reverence in Catholic practices.
In the early days of the Catholic Church, genuflection was reserved for showing respect to human dignitaries and ecclesiastical figures. However, over time, it became customary to genuflect before the Blessed Sacrament, especially when arriving or departing from its presence. This practice gradually spread and gained formal recognition in the 15th and 16th centuries.
The physical act of kneeling during Mass is considered an integral part of Catholic spirituality. The General Instruction of the Roman Missal instructs the faithful to kneel during Mass when Jesus is made present on the altar. This posture of kneeling is meant to express a spiritual attitude of submission, adoration, and reverence before the triune God. It is a way for worshippers to acknowledge the presence of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist and to honour Him.
Kneeling has also been a traditional posture for prayer in the Catholic Church. Biblical references, such as Acts 7:59, Acts 9:40, and Acts 20:36, depict early Christians like St. Stephen, St. Peter, and St. Paul kneeling in prayer. This posture of kneeling during prayer became habitual among the faithful, as evidenced by traditions surrounding St. James, whose continual kneeling was believed to have made his knees as callous as a camel's.
While kneeling is still practised in Catholic churches, some variations and exceptions have emerged. For instance, in France, Catholics may not kneel at all, while in Germany, kneeling during the Prayer of Consecration is common. Additionally, individuals who face physical challenges or pain when kneeling are not expected to perform the act, and bowing their heads or waists is considered a suitable alternative.
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Instructions for kneeling
Kneeling has been a part of Catholic tradition for centuries, and there are specific instructions for when and how to kneel during Mass.
Firstly, when entering and leaving the church, it is customary to genuflect on one knee. This is a gesture of deep respect and is distinguished from kneeling by the fact that only one knee touches the ground. If you are sitting in a pew, this genuflection should be performed before taking your seat and again when you are leaving. It is optional to cross yourself while genuflecting.
If you are passing in front of the altar, you should also genuflect on one knee, unless the tabernacle is empty. This is because the Blessed Sacrament is normally present behind the altar in many Catholic churches, and genuflection is a sign of respect for the consecrated Eucharist.
During Mass, there are specific times when kneeling is traditional. For example, during the Prayer of Consecration, when Jesus is made present on the altar, and during the liturgy on Good Friday. However, it is not mandatory to kneel if there are reasons of health, lack of space, or a large number of people present.
The deacon or celebrant may also invite all those present to kneel during the litany, and they will give a sign when it is time to stand again. This pause is spent in private and silent prayer.
Finally, it is worth noting that in some situations, it is customary to genuflect on both knees, touching the ground. This is reserved for the Most Blessed Sacrament and the Holy Cross and signifies adoration.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Catholic people do still kneel at the altar. Kneeling at Mass has been a tradition for centuries.
There are specific times when kneeling is expected, such as during the Consecration in the Mass, or during the Prayer of Consecration. It is also expected when Jesus is made present on the altar.
Genuflection, or bending one knee to the ground, is an alternative to kneeling. This is common in Catholic churches, especially when passing in front of the altar.
Some people may experience pain when kneeling, but still choose to do so. Others may not kneel due to a lack of space or a high number of people.
