Anglican visiting for the first time

[Potter]

For the first time since I’ve been a member, my church isn’t having a Thanksgiving service on Thanksgiving day. Last week while attending a bake sale done by the Catholic church in town, I found out that they are having a Thanksgiving Day service, so I’m planning on going. What significant differences between Episcopal and Catholic liturgical practices are there? I know I can’t take Communion, but may I still approach the altar and ask for a blessing by crossing my arms over my chest? (This is what I did at what became my church prior to being baptized and confirmed.) I’m also aware of minor things, like language (differences in the replies – ‘and with your spirit’ instead of ‘and also with you’, and so on). Is a missal used in the same way as a Book of Common Prayer might be?

 

[captainmike]

For the first time since I’ve been a member, my church isn’t having a Thanksgiving service on Thanksgiving day. Last week while attending a bake sale done by the Catholic church in town, I found out that they are having a Thanksgiving Day service, so I’m planning on going. What significant differences between Episcopal and Catholic liturgical practices are there? I know I can’t take Communion, but may I still approach the altar and ask for a blessing by crossing my arms over my chest? (This is what I did at what became my church prior to being baptized and confirmed.) I’m also aware of minor things, like language (differences in the replies – ‘and with your spirit’ instead of ‘and also with you’, and so on). Is a missal used in the same way as a Book of Common Prayer might be?

There aren’t many differences. Hope you enjoy it. I moved from ECUSA to Rome several years ago and have never regretted it.

 

[on_the_hill]

but may I still approach the altar and ask for a blessing by crossing my arms over my chest?

In my parish, yes. In others, maybe not. Some people say it’s a violation.

But my parish would probably not fall in the category of “Traditional.” That is, we celebrate the Ordinary Form, not the Extraordinary Form of the Mass.

 

[FrDavid96]

For the first time since I’ve been a member, my church isn’t having a Thanksgiving service on Thanksgiving day. Last week while attending a bake sale done by the Catholic church in town, I found out that they are having a Thanksgiving Day service, so I’m planning on going. What significant differences between Episcopal and Catholic liturgical practices are there? I know I can’t take Communion, but may I still approach the altar and ask for a blessing by crossing my arms over my chest? (This is what I did at what became my church prior to being baptized and confirmed.) I’m also aware of minor things, like language (differences in the replies – ‘and with your spirit’ instead of ‘and also with you’, and so on). Is a missal used in the same way as a Book of Common Prayer might be?

Most Catholic parishes will have missals (or missalettes, paperbacks) to help you follow along. The format is mostly the same, so if you’re already accustomed to the idea that there are “set” prayers (commons) but at certain times, prayers specific to the day (propers), you’ll understand easily how things work. For the most part, the difference between common prayers and proper ones are the same for Catholics as they are for Anglicans. Therefore, you’ll pretty much know what to expect and when. Many Catholic parishes still have pew cards listing the proper prayers (because we have a relatively new English translation), so that might make things easier. Less page turning.

The Catholic missals work the same way as the Book of Common Prayer. The main difference is actually in the printing, since the Missal doesn’t have the other prayers and services like the BCP does. Arrive a few minutes early to give yourself some time to look at the Missal and get a feel for how the pages work. Typically, the beginning of the Mass will be at the beginning of the Missal, or in the middle. In the later case, there should be something in the index that leads you to “The Order of Mass” or a similar page. you’ll probably find it quickly enough, but do give yourself enough lead time.

When it comes time for Communion, the proper thing to do is to say in the pew. There are no blessings at Communion time, instead everyone receives the final blessing at the very end of Mass.

Since it will be Thanksgiving, needless to say, it might be a little different from a typical Thursday Mass. Some parishes ask people to bring non-perishables for the needy and they might even work that into the offertory. I would suggest that you do bring something if you’re able. Even if they don’t do anything special on that day, it will still go to someone who needs it.

 

[Ad_Orientem]

Potter,

If you’re “high Anglican” you might feel more at home in the traditional form of the Mass (priest facing East, incense, altar bells, communion on the tongue, etc.). In North America and some other countries, you can find such a Mass from this page.

This page gives texts of the modern and ancient forms of the Roman Mass side by side. You can in turn compare these with the BCP.

 

[Joelle_M]

I don’t see the harm in her going up for a blessing? I can understand why she can’t receive communion, but what’s the harm in her getting a blessing? Not trying to argue anything with anyone, I’m seriously asking here- I’m sure I still have a lot to learn.

I’d recommend asking the priest when you go to church, maybe approach him before the service and see what he says?

 

[Ad_Orientem]

Getting a blessing at Communion time is a matter of local custom. It’s not an official part of the Mass, but some parishes at least in the U.S. practice it.

 

[Joelle_M]

Oh really? I’ve never been to a mass that doesn’t offer blessings to those who can’t receive communion. I was always taught everyone can go up to get one… I didn’t realize it wasn’t standard practice. Thanks- see- a lot to learn

 

[thistle]

For the first time since I’ve been a member, my church isn’t having a Thanksgiving service on Thanksgiving day. Last week while attending a bake sale done by the Catholic church in town, I found out that they are having a Thanksgiving Day service, so I’m planning on going. What significant differences between Episcopal and Catholic liturgical practices are there? I know I can’t take Communion, but may I still approach the altar and ask for a blessing by crossing my arms over my chest? (This is what I did at what became my church prior to being baptized and confirmed.) I’m also aware of minor things, like language (differences in the replies – ‘and with your spirit’ instead of ‘and also with you’, and so on). Is a missal used in the same way as a Book of Common Prayer might be?

Catholics in a state of mortal sin or not properly disposed to receive and non-Catholics are not to join the Communion line for a blessing. It is a Communion line and not a Communion and Blessing line.
Everyone receives a blessing at the end of the Mass.

From the letter in the link.

**5. In a similar way, for others who are not to be admitted to Holy Communion in accord with the norm of law, the Church’s discipline has already made clear that they should not approach Holy Communion nor receive a blessing. This would include non-Catholics and those envisaged in can. 915 (i.e., those under the penalty of excommunication or interdict, and others who obstinately persist in manifest grave sin). **

adoremus.org/0209CDW_Blessing.html

 

[StGerardMajella]

Last week while attending a bake sale done by the Catholic church in town, I found out that they are having a Thanksgiving Day service, so I’m planning on going. What significant differences between Episcopal and Catholic liturgical practices are there?

Instead of the Book of Common Prayer, Catholics use a Roman Missal. For Catholics, the liturgy differs considerably between the traditional Latin Mass (“Extraordinary” form or “Tridentine” Mass) versus the Novus Ordo Mass (“Ordinary” form).

There is much debate and discussion concerning the differences between the two liturgical forms which you can read elsewhere.

As an Anglican, I would agree with the post above that you would probably prefer the older form of liturgy - the Latin Mass. Similar to Anglican liturgical services, the Latin Mass is the traditional, older form of the Mass, with strict rubrics followed by the priest, Gregorian Chant, incense, etc.

If you happen to be in a major metropolitan area, try looking for the Latin Mass in one of the older cathedrals in the city. In Chicago and Detroit, for example, Latin Mass is celebrated in some of the most beautiful churches, complete with Gregorian Chant, organ music, etc.

In a good way, you will feel like you just stepped back in time 150+ years ago. Many comment on the beauty of the Latin Mass, its timeless, eternal, and meditative qualities.

 

[JimmyG88]

In my parish, yes. In others, maybe not. Some people say it’s a violation.

But my parish would probably not fall in the category of “Traditional.” That is, we celebrate the Ordinary Form, not the Extraordinary Form of the Mass.

Any catholic who regards going to an altar for a blessing as a ‘violation’ is totally deluded. Completely!

 

[paperwight66]

Any catholic who regards going to an altar for a blessing as a ‘violation’ is totally deluded. Completely!

Ah, but you are a fellow-Brit, JimmyG88.

What I keep trying to explain to non-Brits is that our Bishops (i.e. the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales) have specifically encouraged the practice of non-receivers going forward for a blessing. IIRC their words were something like Holy Communion should never be the occasion of hurt and division, by requiring non-receivers to remain in their seats at such a sensitive moment, especially where there are mixed marriages involved.

Rome must know of this practice, yet despite two Papal visits, it has not been stamped on by Rome. Therefore, it is not such a black and white issue that some posters claim it is.

 

[JimmyG88]

Ah, but you are a fellow-Brit, JimmyG88.

What I keep trying to explain to non-Brits is that our Bishops (i.e. the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales) have specifically encouraged the practice of non-receivers going forward for a blessing. IIRC their words were something like Holy Communion should never be the occasion of hurt and division, by requiring non-receivers to remain in their seats at such a sensitive moment, especially where there are mixed marriages involved.

Rome must know of this practice, yet despite two Papal visits, it has not been stamped on by Rome. Therefore, it is not such a black and white issue that some posters claim it is.

But to call it a ‘violation’ is mad.

 

[thistle]

Didn’t anyone read what I quoted?

1. In a similar way, for others who are not to be admitted to Holy Communion in accord with the norm of law,** the Church’s discipline has already made clear that they should not approach Holy Communion nor receive a blessing.** This would include non-Catholics and those envisaged in can. 915 (i.e., those under the penalty of excommunication or interdict, and others who obstinately persist in manifest grave sin).

 

[Potter]

Thank you all for the responses. I think I’ll play it safe and remain in the pew during the celebration of the Eucharist.

 

[JimmyG88]

Didn’t anyone read what I quoted?

1. In a similar way, for others who are not to be admitted to Holy Communion in accord with the norm of law,** the Church’s discipline has already made clear that they should not approach Holy Communion nor receive a blessing.** This would include non-Catholics and those envisaged in can. 915 (i.e., those under the penalty of excommunication or interdict, and others who obstinately persist in manifest grave sin).

This is the problem with relying on the advice of the lowest rank of Vatican bureaucrats without sufficient pastoral experience. Jesus said ‘suffer little children’. I do however agree with him that only a priest can bless someone or something

 

[JimmyG88]

Didn’t anyone read what I quoted?

1. In a similar way, for others who are not to be admitted to Holy Communion in accord with the norm of law,** the Church’s discipline has already made clear that they should not approach Holy Communion nor receive a blessing.** This would include non-Catholics and those envisaged in can. 915 (i.e., those under the penalty of excommunication or interdict, and others who obstinately persist in manifest grave sin).

And they brought unto him also infants, that he might touch them. Which when the disciples saw, they rebuked them. But Jesus, calling them together, said: Suffer children to come to me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. 17Amen, I say to you: Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a child, shall not enter into it.

Im not sure how the opinion of some posters fits with the actions of Jesus. My reading of the situation is that people not eligible for holy communion should not approach the altar for a blessing. I’m assuming that this includes children?

 

[FrDavid96]

This is the problem with relying on the advice of the lowest rank of Vatican bureaucrats without sufficient pastoral experience. Jesus said ‘suffer little children’. I do however agree with him that only a priest can bless someone or something

No.

The problem arises when people take liberties with the Mass under the pretense of being “pastoral.” To be genuinely pastoral is to to obedient to the liturgical norms which the Church has put into place.

The time for receiving Communion at Mass is not the appropriate place to add blessings of individual persons.

 

[JimmyG88]

No.

The problem arises when people take liberties with the Mass under the pretense of being “pastoral.” To be genuinely pastoral is to to obedient to the liturgical norms which the Church has put into place.

The time for receiving Communion at Mass is not the appropriate place to add blessings of individual persons.

It’s not a ‘norm’ Jesus didn’t turn people away although interestingly his disciples did. Then Jesus rebuked then

 

[FrDavid96]

It’s not a ‘norm’ Jesus didn’t turn people away although interestingly his disciples did. Then Jesus rebuked then

Yes. It is the liturgical norm. Whether or not you happen to like it is irrelevant.

Your reasoning “Jesus did not turn anyone away” is likewise irrelevant to the topic. Neither does the Church turn anyone away. Everyone is welcome to receive Holy Communion, provided that the person is properly disposed.

The Church decides the actions and gestures at the Mass. The time for Communion is not the time for blessings. It really is that simple.