Kneeling to receive still a choice?

[benedictgal]

Something else for the OP to consider is that those who choose to kneel in order to receive Holy Communion need not make an additional sign of reverence. Kneeling is already a sign of reverence. On the other hand, those who stand, must either make a profound bow or genuflect.

Rome has ratified the right of the communicant to kneel in order to receive Our Lord. This ratification came in the documentation that both Brendan and I have cited. Inasmuch as the USCCB petitioned for and received recognitio for communicants to stand, the Holy See, in its wisdom and prudence granted this measure on the condition that kneeling was also retained.

Therefore, if a communicant approaches the priest and kneels to receive Our Lord, he is not to be denied Holy Communion. It is not so much the preference of the celebrant as it is the right of the communicant, something that Rome has consistently upheld. We can debate all that we want, but, in the final analysis, Rome is the final and prevailing authority in this matter.

 

[Walking_Home]

I agree with your thoughts.

As someone who attends the EF most Sundays,** I have always heard “traditionalists” say that if the priest asks you to do something reasonable then you should honor the wishes of the priest, as he is your spiritual leader. This makes sense to me, as it is a good way to make our wills more docile and helps us overcome pride.**

But that seems to be ignored in the OF by many, and personal preference is put higher than the priest’s request.

If one kneels to receive in the OF and the priest makes absolutely no comment, then I don’t see that there’s a problem at all. But if the priest requests one to follow the norm of standing to receive, then I certainly think that subjecting our personal preference in such a small manner can be beneficial and help us grow spiritually.

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Reasonable? ----How is it reasonable for clergy to suppress kneeling --when the Church Herself from the very beginning placed the condition that kneeling was not to be suppressed. The “norm” allows standing ----but as per the Church—is not to be used to suppress kneeling. More accurate and truthful --for the clergy to become docile to the will of the Church and quit putting their will over and above the Church.

 

[Walking_Home]

In response to the original question-

Yes, it is still a choice, but possibly not the best choice, especially if the priest/celebrant prefers the standing posture.

Lux

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You are promoting a flawed view of the authoritative structure of the Church.