In the TLM at communion

[excelsus]

Are you supposed to make the Sign of the Cross after you receive? Or do you just bow your head and come back? I couldn’t find an exact method you are supposed to follow anywhere…

 

[giuseppeTO]

Are you supposed to make the Sign of the Cross after you receive? Or do you just bow your head and come back? I couldn’t find an exact method you are supposed to follow anywhere…

Its not a rubrical issue. Most people do make the sign of the cross but it is not required.

 

[Spiritoftruth]

…the only way that “I” can see my behavior at receiving communion is to make the sign of the cross in lieu of falling to my knees. If I remember correctly, it “IS” the Body Of Christ, and If he were to step up there in his glorified body, not only would I probably make the sign of the cross, I would probably fall to the floor and start crying… but that’s just me… I don’t have or take issue with those that make no outward sign, I just don’t see why it would not MOVE anyone to some sort of response… but that’s just me…

 

[Joannm]

…the only way that “I” can see my behavior at receiving communion is to make the sign of the cross in lieu of falling to my knees. If I remember correctly, it “IS” the Body Of Christ, and If he were to step up there in his glorified body, not only would I probably make the sign of the cross, I would probably fall to the floor and start crying… but that’s just me… I don’t have or take issue with those that make no outward sign, I just don’t see why it would not MOVE anyone to some sort of response… but that’s just me…

We do have a response. We are to make a sign of respect. Each episcopal conference can decide what the will be. Here in the USA it is a bow of the head before receiving Our Lord.

 

[Layman]

I think in the Novus Ordo, you do and in the TLM, you don’t. I used to, at TLMs, in the UK, then noticed no one else was.

Can’t hurt if you do, regardless, I suppose(?).

 

[Claire_from_DE]

It’s whatever Sister taught you to do. I don’t, because I’m busy talking to Him. And Sister didn’t teach me to do it. No hard and fast rule. In the TLM you’re already kneeling to receive Him.

 

[Sancto_Spiritu]

Unlike holding hands during the Our Father or receiving communion in the hand, the Sign of the Cross is a perfectly legitimate and respectful action to be performed by the laity.

Just don’t say “amen” at the EF!

 

[palmas85]

We do have a response. We are to make a sign of respect. Each episcopal conference can decide what the will be. Here in the USA it is a bow of the head before receiving Our Lord.

Yes, it certainly is. And what a profound sign of respect it is too. I sure can’t think of anything that shows more reverence, respect and love than a brief cursory bow of the head.

And you know in a way it perfectly displays exactly how many people feel about receiving Holy Communion. A slight fleeting bow of the head. Nothing too difficult, nothing too profound and something quick and easy to do. What could be better?

It is truly a win win situation for all concerned.

:newidea:And just think of the money saved on not having to pad the areas around the sanctuary in order to accommodate kneeling!!!:dancing:

 

[Sancto_Spiritu]

Yes, it certainly is. And what a profound sign of respect it is too. I sure can’t think of anything that shows more reverence, respect and love than a brief cursory bow of the head.

And you know in a way it perfectly displays exactly how many people feel about receiving Holy Communion. A slight fleeting bow of the head. Nothing too difficult, nothing too profound and something quick and easy to do. What could be better?

It is truly a win win situation for all concerned.

:newidea:And just think of the money saved on not having to pad the areas around the sanctuary in order to accommodate kneeling!!!:dancing:

Priceless! How appropriate for the fat, lazy American public that we just briefly move the folds of fat surrounding our necks instead of lowering our body mass onto a low step. Might crack the altar!