Apologist Dave Armstrong defends Ad Orientem posture

[otjm]

The Jesus Christ is both the sacrifice and the priest. Facing Orient (east) in union with the congregation, which represents the Second Coming of Jesus, =/= “facing a wall”. The majority of prayers said during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass are addressed to God, NOT the people.

However, the priest facing the people does not mean that the prayers are addressed to the people - anyone listening with enough brains to keep their ears apart can figure that out simply by listening. Making comments which imply that the prayers are being addressed to the people is part of what makes such conversations difficult, as it is so beyond a red herring as to almost be incapable of categorization.

 

[ProVobis]

However, the priest facing the people does not mean that the prayers are addressed to the people

No, but perception means everything here, especially if first person plural is used. But I don’t see a problem with that if they see God as more of the focus. But that’s up to individuals to deal with.

In any case, it’s probably an approach that is taught in public speaking, and I’ll bet that turning away from the people is the last thing one would want to do to get their attention.

 

[TARRAT]

The Jesus Christ is both the sacrifice and the priest. Facing Orient (east) in union with the congregation, which represents the Second Coming of Jesus, =/= “facing a wall”. The majority of prayers said during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass are addressed to God, NOT the people.

And if he is facing the altar he is offering to God.

 

[ProVobis]

However, the priest facing the people does not mean that the prayers are addressed to the people - anyone listening with enough brains to keep their ears apart can figure that out simply by listening. .

Perhaps, but contrast that to the ad orientem posture where the priest turns around at times such as the Dominus vobiscum, Orate Fratres, Ite Missa Est, etc. where he does in fact address the people. There is no such distinction if the priest faces the people for the entire liturgy.