| St. Mary's Church | |
|
The following are regulations for the celebration of Mass approved for use in the Church in the United States (January 2003):
POSTURE OF THE FAITHFUL - They should sit during the readings before the Gospel reading and during the responsorial psalm, for the homily and the preparation of the gifts, and, if this seems helpful, they may sit or kneel during the period of religious silence after Communion.
They should kneel beginning after the singing or recitation of the Sanctus until after the Amen of the Eucharistic Prayer, except when prevented on occasion by reasons of health, lack of space, or some other good reason. Those who do not kneel ought to make a profound bow while the priest is genuflecting after the consecration. Consistent with the posture of standing after the Great Amen and in receiving Holy Communion, the Archbishop (Brunett) has determined that all should continue standing after the Lamb of God until the end of the Communion Procession unless prevented by age or infirmity. This is in accord with the universal norms of the Church and will maintain the unity of the Communion rite and the flow of communion.
POSTURE AND SIGN OF REVERANCE FOR RECEIVING HOLY COMMUNION - The Conference of Bishops has determined that Holy Communion will be received standing, and that a bow of the head will be the act of reverence made by those receiving Holy Communion. However, no one may be denied Holy Communion because they kneel. Such instances need to be addressed in a pastoral manner giving the reasons for this norm.
The Archbishop has determined that the reception of both the Body and Blood of Christ at every Mass is the norm for all parishes of the Archdiocese of Seattle.
INTINCTION AND SELF-INTINCTION (dipping the host into the wine)- Self - Intinction is never allowed. Holy Communion may be distributed by intinction but only by the priest in the manner described in article #49 of the new Holy Communion norms.
If you have questions, please do not hesitate to ask Father Vic for clarification.