Palmerston North Diocese to discuss liturgical posture

Palmerston North Bishop John Adams said the process for discussions will take place “around the diocese”.

“We know that as Catholics we pray with our bodies. If we are standing or kneeling, sitting or bowing, smelling, seeing, hearing or touching, all of these actions have significance in our prayer – particularly at Mass. We know that Jesus himself prayed with his body,” Bishop Adams said.

“Over the coming weeks I am asking our parishes to convene gatherings to explore the issues here, especially when this concerns our posture during the Eucharistic [Prayer]. The Council of Priests of this diocese have asked me to decide how we, as a diocese, might adopt a common posture for this time,” he said.

Bishop Adams said he hoped people would find out what the Church has to say on the subject in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM).

“Also significant are the wishes of past bishops, and the current situation in your parish. Please pray and discern the various factors that contribute to this discussion,” Bishop Adams said.

“As a result of these meetings, which will double as an attempt for you [to] enter into the synodal process, I hope to hear from you individually or as a parish group. Your input will help me to make a final informed decision on this matter.”

FULL STORY

Liturgical Posture in the Diocese of Palmerston North (Tūmanako/Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North)

General Instruction of the Roman Missal (Holy See)