Correct etiquette for those who clean the church

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misstherese

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Next Sunday, I’m thinking about asking to be on the church cleaning committee. I haven’t cleaned the church since I was little, and did a few things I probably shouldn’t have while the Blessed Sacrament was present, I realize now.

What is the correct etiquette to have before the Blessed Sacrament, if I were to clean the church. For instance, I was often tasked with rearranging the books in the pews. Do I have to genuflect every time I step out of the pew? Should I give a sign of reverence every time I pass by it?
 
I used to clean the pews. Personally, I just got in and out of the pews without genuflecting and would bow whenever I went to the other side of the church.
 
Once when you enter the church, and once when you are done.
this is the instruciton of our canonist.
 
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The first time. God knows what you are doing in His house. Genuflect when you leave for good.
 
Whatever practical way you decide to handle it, simply explain to God what you are doing and He will understand as long as you have a good intention.

I remember a Padre Pio story about some monk who was in purgatory for not properly respecting the altar when he cleaned, but it sounded like the problem was more that the monk did not have the right attitude, and not just that he didn’t happen to genuflect while he was sweeping or whatever.
 
I was just thinking of this story! Apparently, he didn’t give the proper reverence to our Lord when passing the tabernacle and that’s why he was in purgatory, cleaning the altar. I think I will genuflect toward Him as I pass the tabernacle, and bow as I go to either side of the church. Thanks for the (name removed by moderator)ut!
 
Genuflect at the tabernacle and bow at the altar.

As for the altar, similarly, as you enter the sanctuary and when you leave it. Doesn’t have to bow every time.
 
If you are really worried, instead join the landscaping committee!😎
 
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