What is the official catholic ruling on liturgical dance?

[Brendan_64]

I never said everyone was like that, but a lot of people go just because they have to, not because they enjoy being there.

I am a little offended by everyone making fun of my attraction to liturgical dance frankly, but I didn’t make a big deal out of it, there is no need for you to take what I said personally either. It wasn’t a personal attack.

How do you know who does and who doesn’t go to Mass just because they have to? What do you base this on? Describing people as having “stagnant hearts” is pretty strong, don’t you think?

I have not attacked you personally nor did I take what you said as personal. But the fact remains that it does annoy me when people seem to be regarded (by some) as being somewhat lacking in their worship because they prefer a less ‘extroverted’ style of worship.

 

[OraLabora]

How do you know who does and who doesn’t go to Mass just because they have to?

I’ve been that person and I’ll likely have other periods of being that person in the rest of my life. We all have our ups and downs in the faith. I found though, that the best solution when I am having a dark night, is to persevere in Mass attendance, and for me, the Divine Office (part of my oblate promise).

So yes there have been times I’ve been there “because I had to”, but eventually the light comes back on and I am there because I want to and find joy in participating in the liturgy. And usually those moments happen when least expected, which makes the perseverance and “being there because I had to” rewarding.

 

[TheLittleLady]

I never said everyone was like that, but a lot of people go just because they have to, not because they enjoy being there.

I liken this to a family relationship, one between spouses or parents/children.

Often we say “I love you” when our spouse or child leaves for the day, hangs up the phone, etc. as a habit. It is not said with emotion nor with a loving glance, an embrace or a gesture. Just “love you!” “love you too!”

If you say my husband and I fire off “love you” when we hang up, would you assume we were only doing that because we have to, that we do not enjoy, cherish, adore the other?

Or, for a completely different analogy, have you ever watched the Changing of the Guard in London or at the US Tomb of the Unknown? It is done with no exuberance, no emotion at all. Silent, expressionless faces, and this is one of the most reverent things one will ever witness. It is the deepest form of honor or respect.

 

[joeybaggz]

I know you don’t want to engage In an argument. My original post was just to have a little fun; in no way was it meant as a personal attack against your original post. As to shenanigans, what I saw in the late 60’s and early 70’s was ridiculous. I guess the “dancers” thought it meaningful, but to most of us it was beyond silly. Then again, there were some priests back then that were “silly.” If there is a reverent form of dance that is allowed at masses you attend, approved by the pastor and bishop of the diocese, indulge and enjoy. Personally, and I imagine I speak for a lot of “older” Catholics, I see no place in the mass for dance. No criticism intended, but if one needs something to “enhance” the beauty of the Eucharist or its celebration, then, to me, there is something lacking.
But, to each his or her own.
Peace